REACTIONS OF N(2 D-2) AND N(2 P-2) WITH O-2

The rate constants for the reactions of N(2 2D) + O2 and N(2 2P) + O2 have been measured by employing a pulse radiolysis-resonance absorptio n technique at temperatures between 210 and 295 K. The rate constants were expressed by the following Arrhenius equations: k(N(2D)+O2) = 9.4 x 10(-12) exp(-210/T) and k(N(2P)+O2) = 3.1 x 10(-12) exp(-60/T) in u nits of cm3 S-1. The results for N(2D) + O2 were compared with the res ults of quasiclassical trajectory calculations on the basis of modifie d LEPS potential-energy surfaces. It is suggested that the main exit c hannel for the N(2D) + O2 reaction is the production of O(1D) under th e present conditions.