A genetic algorithm based technique for locating first-order saddle point using a gradient dominated recipe

The present paper proposes and tests the workability of a genetic algorithm based search technique for locating the first-order saddle points on the p otential energy surfaces of Lennard-Jones clusters with n less than or equa l to 30. A modified objective function using gradients only is used to loca te the saddle points. The cost effectiveness of the proposed method vis-a-v is that of an earlier formulation, where an explicit determination of Hessi an eigenvalues was required, is demonstrated. The method could be useful in the construction and the analysis of the reaction paths in complex systems . (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.