E-field lowering of ionization potential

[free_electron]

When an electric field is high enough, electrons are not so easily confined to molecules or atoms. This has been the basis of field ionization for mass spectrometry. But what if the field is not enough to ionize, but close. Would it be easier to ionize the atom or molecule with less energy? Any reference on this?

Thanks in advance.

 

[ZapperZ]

This is loosely known as the Schottky effect (just be careful because this term is used elsewhere for other similar phenomena). We see this all the time as the lowering of the work function of metals when it is in very high electric field. So this is certainly similar to the case for atoms and molecules where the ionization energy has been lowered due to the external field.

Zz.

 

[charng]

The concept of E-field lowering of ionization potential is an interesting phenomenon in the field of mass spectrometry. It refers to the effect of an electric field on the ionization potential of molecules or atoms. As the electric field increases, the ionization potential decreases, making it easier for electrons to be removed from the atoms or molecules.

This phenomenon has been extensively studied in the context of field ionization for mass spectrometry, where a high electric field is used to remove electrons from molecules, allowing for their detection and analysis. However, as you have mentioned, there is also a potential for this phenomenon to occur at lower electric fields, where the ionization potential is not enough to cause complete ionization, but is still significantly reduced.

In this case, it is likely that the atoms or molecules would still experience some level of ionization, but it may require less energy compared to the ionization potential without the presence of the electric field. This could potentially make it easier to study and analyze molecules that are typically difficult to ionize using traditional methods.

There have been some studies exploring the effects of E-field lowering of ionization potential at lower electric field strengths. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society in 2017 investigated the ionization of large biomolecules using a low electric field and found that the presence of the electric field significantly lowered the ionization potential, making it easier to ionize these molecules.

In conclusion, E-field lowering of ionization potential is a fascinating phenomenon with potential applications in mass spectrometry and other fields. Further research is needed to fully understand and utilize this effect, but it holds promise for easier and more efficient ionization of molecules in various scientific applications.