We propose a method for controlling a class of low temperature chemical reactions.
Specifically, we show the hydrogen abstraction channel in the reaction of formaldehyde (H 2
CO) and the hydroxyl radical (OH) can be controlled through either the molecular state or an
external electric field. We also outline experiments for investigating and demonstrating
control over this important reaction. To this end, we report the first Stark deceleration of H 2
CO. We have decelerated a molecular beam of H 2 CO essentially to rest, producing …

We propose a method for controlling a class of low temperature chemical reactions.
Specifically, we show the hydrogen abstraction channel in the reaction of formaldehyde (H
{sub 2} CO) and the hydroxyl radical (OH) can be controlled through either the molecular
state or an external electric field. We also outline experiments for investigating and
demonstrating control over this important reaction. To this end, we report the first Stark
deceleration of H {sub 2} CO. We have decelerated a molecular beam of H {sub 2} CO …