Stress Tensor Eigenvector Following with Next-GenerationQuantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules: Excited State PhotochemicalReaction Path from Benzene to Benzvalene

In this investigation we considered both the scalar and 3-D vector-based measures of bonding using next generation quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM), constructed from the preferred direction of electronic charge density accumulation, to better understand the photo-chemical reaction associated with of the formation of benzvalene from benzene. The formation of benzvalene from benzene resulted in two additional C-C bonds forming compared with the benzene. The creation of the additional C-C bonds was explained in terms of an increasing the favorability of the reaction process by maximizing the bonding density. The topological instability of the benzvalene structure was determined using the scalar and vector-based measures to explain the short chemical half-life of benzvalene in terms of the competition between the formation of unstable new C-C bonding that also destabilizes nearest neighbor C-C bonds. The explosive character of benzvalene is indicated by the unusual tendency of the C-C bonds to rup...