Cluster anions: Structure, interactions, and dynamics in the sub-nanoscale regime

Abstract

This article reflects on several recent advances in the studies of structure and dynamics of cluster anions, both as unique species and as a conceptual bridge between isolated molecules and the condensed phase. Applications involving photofragment and photodetachment spectroscopy, as well as femtosecond time-resolved experiments, are described. Special emphasis is given to the effects of microscopic solvation on the electronic structure and reactivity of negative ions in heterogeneous and homogeneous cluster environments. Several recent breakthroughs in experimental methodology are outlined, in particular the application of photoelectron imaging to the studies of molecular cluster anions.