Determination of O2(a1 delta g) and O2(b1 sigma+ g) yields in the reaction O + ClO --> Cl + O2:  implications for photochemistry in the atmosphere of Venus.
A discharge flow apparatus with chemiluminescence detector has been used to study the reaction O + ClO --> Cl + O2, where O2 = O2(a1 delta g) or O2(b1 sigma+ g).  The measured quantum yields for producing O2(a1 delta g) and O2(b1 sigma+ g) in the above reaction are less than 2.5 x 10(-2) and equal to (4.4 +/- 1.1) x 10(-4), respectively.  The observed O2(a1 delta g) airglow of Venus cannot be explained in the context of standard photochemistry using our experimental results and those reported in recent literature.  The possibility of an alternative source of O atoms derived from SO2 photolysis in the mesosphere of Venus is suggested.
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Earth and Space Sciences Division, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena 91109, USA.
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D001272:Atmosphere / Q000032:analysis*; D002713:Chlorine / Q000737:chemistry; D003198:Computer Simulation; D005118:Extraterrestrial Environment; D008956:Models, Chemical; D009584:Nitrogen / Q000737:chemistry; D010100:Oxygen / Q000737:chemistry*; D010777:Photochemistry; D013458:Sulfur Dioxide / Q000737:chemistry; D018536:Venus
D013458:Sulfur Dioxide; D002713:Chlorine; D009584:Nitrogen; D010100:Oxygen