Phase-shift studies of Hg(3P0) reactions. Part 1.—Reactions in mixtures of NH3 with other gases

Modulated 253.7 nm radiation from a microwave-powered lamp has been used to excite mercury atoms in the presence of ammonia plus an added gas (Ar, N2, H2, O2, N2O, NO, CO, or C2H6). From measurements of phase delays, between the mercury 253.7 nm fluorescence and the 350 nm luminescence arising from the Hg˙NH3 complex, rate constants have been determined for quenching of the Hg·NH3 complex by the added gas, for reaction of the added gas with Hg(3P0), and for the action of the added substance as a third body during formation of a stabilized Hg·NH3 complex.