Ionization Processes on Tungsten Filaments I. The Electron Affinity of the Oxygen Atom

Abstract

The electron affinity of the oxygen atom was determined to be 53.8±0.8 kcal./mole by measuring the ratio of ions to electrons leaving a hot tungsten filament in contact with nitrous oxide gas at a low pressure. Previous investigations of this quantity yielded discordant results. A possible reason for this disagreement is set forth.