Experimental study of the reactions of N2(A 3Σ+u) with H atoms and OH radicals

The reactions of N2(A 3Σ+u) with H atoms and OH radicals have been studied by the discharge-flow technique. The concentrations of the radicals were measured by resonance fluorescence and N2(A) was monitored by (A−X) emission. The rate constant of the N2(A)+H reaction was measured as (2.1±0.3)×10−10 cm3 s−1. Chemical reaction to NH+N was shown to be unimportant. The total rate constant for quenching of N2(A) by OH was measured as (1.1±0.4)×10−10 cm3 s−1. The channel leading to OH(2Σ+) has a rate constant of (1.0±0.3)×10−10 cm3 s−1. Approximately 16% of the OH(A) is formed in v′=1. The mechanisms of these two very rapid reactions are discussed.