Molecule dissociation at low energies on Pt(110)

The scattering of N-2 off Pt(110) is studied at energies of 1000-2000 eV at angles of incidence between 1.2 degrees and 7 degrees. These parameters ar e equivalent to a range of perpendicular energies of 0.4-28 eV. Strong angu lar effects are observed. Along the (110) surface channels the dissociation is stronger than for scattering along a random or high indexed surface dir ection. The experimental results can be understood in terms of a model incl uding vibrational and rotational excitations and including an electronic sc reening effect on the N-N bond of the scattered molecules. (C) 2001 Elsevie r Science B.V. All rights reserved.