Multiple-collision induced dissociation of trapped silver clusters Ag-n(+)(2 <= n <= 25)

The dissociation energies of singly charged silver cluster cations, Ag-n(+) (2 less than or equal to n less than or equal to 25), are determined by mu ltiple-collision induced dissociation (MCID) in a Penning trap. The fragmen t yield is analyzed in terms of a linearized impulsive collision theory for the energy transfer in the multicollisional process and the delayed decay as predicted by the Rice-Ramsperger-Kassel (RRK) model. Previous photofragm entation experiments performed in the size range (9 less than or equal to n less than or equal to 21) are found to be in good agreement with the prese nt results. Theoretical predictions agree for most clusters sizes. (C) 1999 American Institute of Physics. [S0021-9606(99)01314-8].