Background to tabulated data

Since there is such a large volume of quantitative kinetic data on transfer reactions of atoms and radicals in the gas phase, the logical way in which to present and discuss the results would appear to be in tabular form. In drawing up such tables it is hoped that they will present the essence of the data contained in the compilations mentioned earlier [2—11], This has been achieved by imposing certain restrictions. 

In using the tables of the present chapter it should be borne in mind that while the results are presented in the form of absolute Arrhenius parameters, the bulk of the data have been derived from measurements of rate coefficient ratios and the absolute values are usually based on estimates of the rate coefficients of the reference reaction. This applies particularly to the radical reactions where the measurements are made relative to the radical combination reaction. Details of the assumptions involved with many of the reference reactions are discussed under the headings of the appropriate radicals. 

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