Carbon chain extension processes in cryogenic environments: UV-assisted growth of polyynic nitriles in solidified rare gases

As demonstrated in recent years, polyynic nitriles may photochemically arise from smaller unsaturated chain species in an apparently rigid environment of a cryogenic rare gas matrix. Here I summarize the highlights of respective research that has advanced the spectroscopic description of R–(C≡C)n–C≡N molecules (R = H, CN or CH3).As demonstrated in recent years, polyynic nitriles may photochemically arise from smaller unsaturated chain species in an apparently rigid environment of a cryogenic rare gas matrix. Here I summarize the highlights of respective research that has advanced the spectroscopic description of R–(C≡C)n–C≡N molecules (R = H, CN or CH3).