Isolated atoms, molecules and clusters

The basic constituents of matter, namely, atoms molecules and small clusters can be isolated in a solid rare-gas-matrix (RGM) and be characterized by Mössbauer Spectroscopy (MS). Experiments can be conducted both by the absorption method using a co-evaporation method of Mössbauer isotopes or by emission spectroscopy where source nuclei are isolated in the RGM. Experimental aspects of both techniques are outlined. Examples of applications of RGMI-MS are described, namely,⁵⁷Fe clustering with noble-metals (Cu, Ag, Au); unusual electronic states of Fe following⁵⁷Co e.c. decay; species formed by the bonding of Fe⁰, in its ground state, to small molecules are compared with those formed by Fe in its various excited states; and finally, the characterization of atomic I⁰ and Te⁰ and Te^-1 embedded in a solid argon matrix.