Diffusion-controlled reactions: analysis of quenched fluorescence decay data

Abstract

The rate coefficient for a diffusion-controlled reaction, according to some models, is given by the following equation: k(t)=a+bexp(c²t)erfc(ct^1/2) where a, b and c are constants. The method of non-linear least-squares has been used for the analysis of time-resolved quenched fluorescence decay data simulated for the above equation. The method is capable of giving unique values for the parameters a, b and c under certain conditions; for example, when the exact value of the time-shift parameter, δ is known. In the absence of an exact value for δ it becomes necessary to evolve a procedure for the analysis of experimental data, based on the results of analysis of appropriate simulated data. The method is successfully applied for the analysis of experimental data.