Is interstellar detection of higher members of the linear radicals CnCH and CnN feasible?
Rotational constants and dipole moments for linear-chain radicals CnCH and CnN are estimated using a combination of ab initio molecular orbital calculations and observed data on the starting members of the series.  CnCH with n = 0-5 have been observed by radioastronomy in carbon-rich interstellar clouds; higher members of the series have 2 pi ground states with large dipole moments and are strong candidates for observation.  CN and C3N have also been observed by radioastronomy; higher members of the series, with the possible exception of C5N, have 2 pi ground states with near-zero dipole moments making their interstellar detection hopeless under present observational conditions.  C5N can be a strong candidate only if it has a 2 sigma ground state, and our best computations so far indicate that this is not the case.
Pauzat
F
F
Molecular Research Institute, Palo Alto, USA.
Ellinger
Y
Y
McLean
A D
AD
D000114:Acetylene / Q000032:analysis / Q000737:chemistry; D055580:Astronomical Phenomena; D001256:Astronomy; D005118:Extraterrestrial Environment; D006838:Hydrocarbons / Q000032:analysis / Q000737:chemistry; D009584:Nitrogen / Q000032:analysis / Q000737:chemistry; D016082:Solar System
D006838:Hydrocarbons; D009584:Nitrogen; D000114:Acetylene