Binding energies in atomic negative ions: III

This article updates a 14 yr old review on this subject [J. Phys. Chem. Ref. Data 14, 731 (1985)]. A survey of the electron affinity determinations for the elements up to Z = 94 is presented, and based upon these data, a set of recommended electron affinities is established. New developments in the experimental methods which yield accurate electron binding energies are described. Fine structure splittings and excited state energies of negative ions as well as lifetimes of metastable states are given. Progress in theoretical calculations of atomic electron affinities is documented by comparison with reliable experimental data. (C) 1999 American Institute of Physics and American Chemical Society. [S0047-2689(99)00206-8].