On the Average Energies of Molecular Ions

The average excitation energy e-bar with which molecule ions are formed by electron impact-induced ionization in relation to the average energy expended in the formation of molecule ions is considered. Under the assumption of an essential applicability of a quasi-equilibrium rate theory to mass spectra, e-bar can be related to two observable mass spectral qualities. The validity of the quasi-equilibrium theory is also independently checked by using the data to calculate an average energy required to form a molecule ion by methods which are not dependent on the theory. Comparison of the average excitation energies with which ions are formed as calculated from the equations indicate excellent agreement between the different methods. (J.R.D.)