Theoretical prediction of the optimal conditions for observing the stereodynamical vector properties of the C( 3 P) + OH (X 2 Π) → CO(X 1 Σ + ) + H( 2 S) reaction

The best optimal initial reactant state and collision energy for observing the stereodynamical vector properties of the title reaction in the ground electronic state X2A' potential energy surface (PES) [Zanchet et al. 2006 J. Phys. Chem. A 110 12017] are theoretically predicted using the quasi-classical trajectory (QCT) method for the first time. The calculated results reveal that the smallest value of the rotational quantum number j, larger vibrational quantum number v, and the lower strength of collision energy should be selected for offering the most obvious picture about the stereodynamical vector properties. Polarization-dependent differential cross sections and the angular momentum alignment distribution, P(θr) and P(Φr) in the center-of-mass frame, are obtained to gain an insight into the alignment and orientation of the product molecules. The rotational angular momentum vector j' of CO is aligned to be perpendicular to reagent relative velocity k. The product polarizations align along the y axis, pointing to the positive direction of the y axis. A new method is developed to investigate massive reactions with various initial states and to further study the vector properties of the fundamental reactions in detail.