A theoretical treatment of the LiH and BeH formation through radiative association

Rate constants for the formation of LiH and BeH through the radiative assoc iation process have been calculated from potential energy surfaces and dipo le moments, accurately determined using quantum chemistry methods. At 400 K , these rate constants are 0.3 X 10(-19) cm(3\) s(-1) for LiH and 0.7 x 10( -19) cm(3) s(-1) for BeH. The cosmological implications of these results an d the role of LiH and BeH as primordial molecules are discussed. (C) 1999 P ublished by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.