Adding rreactivity to structure-reaction dynamics in a nanometer-size oxide ion in water

We examine oxygen-isotope exchanges in a nanometer-size oxide molecule in water and, separately, both its rates of dissociation and molecular products. This molecule, the decaniobate ion ([H(x),Nb(10)O(28)]((6-x)-)), is at the same size scale as geochemically interesting features on minerals, such as surface polymers and kink sites on growth steps, although it is structurally quite dissimilar. Unlike mineral surface structures, however, we have complete confidence in the aqueous structure of this molecule and it yields a clear spectroscopic signature as it reacts. We thus can follow proton-enhanced isotope exchanges and base-induced dissociation in unprecedented detail and clarity.