ENERGETICS AND ELECTRONIC-STRUCTURE OF HYDROGENATED CLUSTERS

Small atomic clusters constitute a new class of matter whose atomic structure and electronic properties depend strongly on their size and composition. The interaction of these clusters with hydrogen is dominated by their surface-like character and can deviate significantly from the corresponding bulk metal-hydrogen interaction. Some of the salient features of clusters and their interaction with hydrogen are reviewed. Analogy is also drawn between metal hydrides vs. cluster hydrides.