Exploring a dynamical path for C$_2$H$^-$ and NCO$^-$ formation in dark molecular clouds

TL;DR

This study investigates the formation pathways of C₂H⁻ and NCO⁻ anions in dark molecular clouds, using computational methods to analyze radiative association mechanisms and their efficiency in the interstellar medium.

Contribution

It provides detailed computational analysis of radiative association pathways for C₂H⁻ and NCO⁻ formation, including cross sections, rates, and resonance effects, expanding understanding of anion formation in space.

Findings

RA cross sections align with other molecular ions but are not dominant formation routes.

Resonant structures significantly influence the association dynamics.

Alternative formation pathways are also considered and discussed.

Abstract

This paper deals with the possible formation of two molecular anions often considered likely components in the physical environments of the Interstellar Medium ( ISM) : $\mathrm{C_2H^-}$ and $\mathrm{NCO^-}$. They are both discussed here by computationally following the radiative association (RA) mechanism starting from $\mathrm{C_2^-}$, $\mathrm{H}$, $\mathrm{NC^-}$ and $\mathrm{O}$ as partners. The corresponding RA total cross sections produced by the calculations are in turn employed to generate the overall association rates over the relevant range of temperatures. The latter are found to be in line with other molecular ions formed by RA but not large enough to uniquivocally suggest this path as the main route to the anions formation in the ISM. Other possible paths of formation are also analysed and discussed. The presence of resonant structures during the association dynamics for both systems is found by the calculations and their consequences are discussed in some detail in the present study.