This starter grant award to Ohio State University will support the research of Professor Christopher M. Hadad. The theme of the research is gas phase studies of reactive intermediates by a combined approach of experiment with theory. The fundamental reactions of radicals in the gas phase will be studied using a variable temperate flowing afterglow-neutral flow reactor. The hybrid system allows the generation of radicals via flash vacuum pyrolytic methods followed by examination of the chemistry with neutral reagents. The experimental information is supplemented by computational studies -- ab initio molecular orbital calculations to provide insight into transition state structures and possible mechanistic alternatives. This research will advance the fundamental understanding of radical reactions relevant to combustion and atmospheric chemistry. Such knowledge is important to the efficient use of fuel resources and for maintaining the environment.
