Gold clusters (AuN, 2≤N≤10) and their anions

Atomic and electronic structures of neutral and anionic gold clusters (AU(N) and Au-N(-), 2 less than or equal to N less than or equal to 10) are investigated using the density-functional theory with scalar-relativistic ab initio pseudopotentials and a generalized gradient correction. The ground state optimal geometries of the neutral and anionic clusters are found to be planar up to N=7 and 6, respectively, with the much studied Au, cluster predicted to have a D-3h triangular structure. The calculated electron detachment energies of the ground-state anions exhibit strong odd-even alternations and structural sensitivity and agree quantitatively with photoelectron measurements. Photofragmentation patterns of the cluster anions and their interplay with the photodetachment process, are investigated and correlated with experiments.