f-Block chemistry: a study of Sm+ and Th+ reactions with small molecules in the gas phase

The study of the reactions of Sm+ and Th+ with several small molecules using guided ion beam tandem mass spectrometry is presented. The kinetic energy dependent reaction cross sections of these reactions are modelled using a modified line-of-centers model, and thermochemical values, including bond dissociation energies (BDEs), are reported. In most cases, the experimental BDEs are compared to BDEs derived from quantum chemical calculations. Furthermore, a semiempirical model to include spin-orbit energy corrections to theoretical calculations is presented. Finally, experimental Th+ BDEs are used to elucidate the thermochemical trends of the actinide series.