Collisional deactivation of O 2 ( 1 Σ g + )

Relaxation rates for O 2 ( 1 Σ g + ) by nonradiative pathways have been determined using the fast‐flow technique. O 2 ( 1 Σ g + ) is formed from O 2 ( 1 Δ g ) by an energy pooling process. O 2 ( 1 Δ g ) is generated by passing purified oxygen through a microwave discharge. Oxygen atoms are removed by distilling mercury vapor through the discharge zone. It has been observed that the wall loss rate for O 2 ( 1 Σ g + ) decreases with increasing pressure of oxygen and thus appears to be diffusion controlled. Quenching rate constants for O 2 , N 2 , and He have been determined and found to be (1.5 ± 0.1) × 10 4 , (1.0 ± 0.05) × 10 6 and (1.2 ± 0.1) × 10 5 l./mol·sec, respectively.