Abstract :
[en] Positrons, the antiparticles of electrons, serve as unique probes for fundamental interactions and are crucial in diverse applications. We present a new mechanism in chemical bonding: the formation of a positron-driven bond that fundamentally alters electronic bonding interactions. Investigating the Be2 dimer with Quantum Monte Carlo (QMC) simulations, we construct the potential energy curve of e+:Be2. Our analysis reveals a significant energetic stabilization of the Be-Be bond upon positron attachment, a result that challenges conventional understanding. We show this stabilization arises from a novel, two-stage mechanism: at longer distances, a positron bond forms via internuclear positron accumulation, similar to that in positron-anion systems. However, as the atoms approach equilibrium, the positron density undergoes a unique redistribution, moving out of the internuclear region to accumulate in the outer molecular vicinity. This distinct positron localization, combined with an otherwise repulsive electronic component, leads to overall system stabilization as the electron density dynamically follows the positron. This work expands our understanding of chemical bonding by strongly suggesting how an antiparticle can profoundly influence molecular stability.
Funding text :
The QMC calculations presented in this paper were carried out using the HPC facilities of the University of Luxembourg84 (see https://hpc.uni.lu). The authors acknowledge Dr Matteo Barborini (matteo.barborini@uni.lu) for the support on QMeCha code, the implementation of the energy decomposition, discussions, and for providing the resources to perform the QMC calculations. MTNV acknowledges support from CNPq (Grant no.306285/2022-3). AR acknowledges support from Universidad Nacional de Colombia (HERMES 63579).
Scopus citations®
without self-citations
0