Microwave spectrum and geometry of the methyl isocyanide–argon complex

Abstract

The rotational spectrum of a complex formed between methyl isocyanide and argon has been observed using pulsed-nozzle, Fourier-transform microwave spectroscopy. The spectrum and geometry of the complex are very similar to those found for CH ₃ CN···Ar (R. S. Ford et al., J. Chem. Phys., 1991, 94, 5306). The complex is T-shaped, with the argon atom located 3.64 Åfrom the centre of mass of the methyl isocyanide molecule. There appears to be almost free internal rotation of the methyl isocyanide molecule about its symmetry axis in the complex.