Autoionization is a process by which atoms or molecules spontaneously transition from an electrically neutral state to a lower-energy ionized state.^[1]

Atoms can autoionize when the two valence electrons are both excited and, through electrostatic interactions, one of the electrons is ejected, ionizing the atom. Molecules can experience vibrational autoionization.^[2]

For an example of molecular autoionization, see self-ionization of water.

Other examples are given by the autoionization of core-excited molecules, see Auger effect, or of Rydberg atoms.

Autoionizing states are resonances.

More specifically, autoionization refers to non-redox ionization of a molecular substance. See molecular autoionization

[edit] See also

• Resonance
• Ionization

[edit] References

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