Elementary reaction of CF2((X)over-tilde) with O(3): Primary products

The reaction of CF(2)((X) over tilde) with O(3) has been investigated in a discharge flow reactor at room temperature and low pressure (p = 2.5 mbar). CF(2)((X) over tilde) was produced by a microwave discharge of a mixture of CF(2)Br(2)/He. The reactants and products were detected by mass spectrometers (MS), which were connected to the flow systems via a continuous molecular beam sampling system. The following primary products were observed (CF(2)O(3) (m/z = 98); CF(2)O (m/z = 47, 66); O(2) (m/z = 32)). The reaction mechanism: CF(2)((X) over tilde) + O(3) reversible arrow CF(2)O(3)(#) --> CF(2)O(3) -> CF(2)O + O(2) explains the observed primary products. The molecule with the empirical formula CF(2)O(3) has been observed directly by MS; the structure is discussed.