Microwave spectra of CuOD and AgOD: Molecular structure and harmonic force field of CuOH and AgOH

Pure rotational spectra are reported for the deuterated species of copper and silver hydroxide, (CuOD)-Cu-63, (AgOD)-Ag-107, and (AgOD)-Ag-109. Together with the CuOH and AgOH data previously reported, a number of harmonic force constants were determined. These constants are interpreted in terms of the balance between competing ionic and covalent interactions. The harmonic force field allowed the r(z) structures to be determined. Both molecules are strongly bent indicating considerable covalent character. (C) 2000 American Institute of Physics. [S0021-9606(99)01148-4].