Atomic clusters
Encyclopedia
--> See Molecular clusters
Atomic clusters can be either pure, formed from a single atomic species or from a mixture.
Classifications criteria:
For the majority of atomic species there are clusters of certain atomic counts (so-called “magic numbers”) that have preponderent representation in the mass spectra, an indication of their greater stability with respect to dissociation when compared to their neighboring atomic counts.
Atomic clusters can be either pure, formed from a single atomic species or from a mixture.
Classifications criteria:
- by predominant bond nature: metallic, covalent, ionic;
- by atomic count: “micro” < 20, “small” < 100 < “large”
- by electric / magnetic properties
For the majority of atomic species there are clusters of certain atomic counts (so-called “magic numbers”) that have preponderent representation in the mass spectra, an indication of their greater stability with respect to dissociation when compared to their neighboring atomic counts.