On the mechanism of the N(4S) + CS2reactions: N2-CO2laser pumping from the products of the N(4S) + CS2reaction

The reaction of N atoms with CS
2
has been studied and a mechanism for the reaction proposed. It has been demonstrated that the N + NS reaction produces vibrationally excited N
2
. Evidence has been presented which indicates that the rate of the N + CS
2
reaction is substantially slower than first indicated. The analogous reaction N + OCS → NS + CO has also been studied and a mechanism proposed.