Photodissociation of n-heptane molecular ion: Real-time investigation of consecutive reactions

Photodissociation of the n-heptane molecular ion has been studied using mass-analyzed ion kinetic energy spectrometry. The photodissociation has been found to occur through various competing reactions. Most importantly, the present technique provides a means to investigate consecutive reactions in real time. Six consecutive two-step dissociation reactions of n-heptane molecular ion have been identified. The rate constant for the second step in the production of propyl ion via pentyl ion intermediate has been determined on a nanosecond time scale.