Energetics of the Ps Formation: Role of the Solvated Electron

摘要

Taking liquid water as an example, we have considered energetics of the positronium formation. It is shown that quasi-free Ps as well as the Ps localized in a bubble cannot decay into a hydrated electron and positron. The most probable value of the positron work function in water, V_0~+, is 1.5…2 eV. Ps formation from the hydrated electron and positron is energetically possible. By the end of thermalization the majority of positrons escape the blob and hydrate outside. The low-mobile е_(aq)~+ has no time to diffuse back and form Ps with intrablob e-. These е_(aq)~+ mostly annihilate as "free positrons". Positrons, which are thermalized within the blob, recombine with the quasi-free intrablob electrons and form Ps.