Rate constants for the reactions of O⁺ with N₂ and O₂ as a function of temperature (300-1800 K)

We have studied the rate constants for the reaction of O⁺ with N₂ over the temperature range 300-1600 K and the reaction of O⁺ with O₂ over the range 300 to 1800 K. The results are in good agreement with previous measurements made up to 900 K. The rate constant tor the O⁺ reaction with N₂ shows a minimum in the temperature range 1100-1300 K. The increase above this temperature is due to N₂ v=2 becoming populated. The rate constant for O⁺ + O₂ shows a minimum in the 800-1100 K range. Comparing to previous drift tube measurements allows the rate constant for O₂ (v>0) to be derived. The v>0 rate constant is approximately five times larger than the v=0 rate constant.