Knowledge Bank

The infrared spectra $H2O,D2O$ and HDO in solid nitrogen matrices at $20\circ K$ have been investigated at higher resolution than previously reported studies of the water-nitrogen system. There is no evidence for rotation of the water molecules in the matrix. The frequencies and intensities of the bands due to dimeric species point quite definitely to an open structure with a single hydrogen bond and further suggest that the difference in deuterium versus hydrogen bond strength is observable at this temperature.