The structure and stability of small copper clusters with up to ten atoms has been determined both for the neutral and the ionic clusters with density functional calculations. The calculations were of all-electron type. The structure optimization and frequency analysis were performed on the local density approximation level with the exchange correlation functional by Vosko, Wilk, and Nusair. Subsequently improved calculations for the stability were based on the generalized gradient approximation, where the exchange correlation functional of Perdew and Wang was used. Finally, the binding energies, ionization potentials, electron affinities, and separation energies were calculated. The results show that the trends are in agreement with available experimental data.

Density functional theory optimized basis sets for gradient corrected functionals for 3d transition metal atoms are presented. Double zeta valence polarization and triple zeta valence polarization basis sets are optimized with the PW86 functional. The performance of the newly optimized basis sets is tested in atomic and molecular calculations. Excitation energies of 3d transition metal atoms, as well as electronic configurations, structural parameters, dissociation energies, and harmonic vibrational frequencies of a large number of molecules containing 3d transition metal elements, are presented. The obtained results are compared with available experimental data as well as with other theoretical data from the literature.

Density functional calculations have been performed for small copper clusters, Cun (n≤5), using the linear combination of Gaussian-type orbitals density functional theory (LCGTO-DFT) approach. The calculations were of the all-electron type and local and nonlocal functionals were used. For each case, of both neutral and charged systems, several isomers have been considered in order to determine the lowest energy structures. The Jahn–Teller effect in Cu3 and Cu4 has been examined in detail. Bond lengths, equilibrium geometries, harmonic frequencies, adiabatic and vertical ionization potentials, adiabatic electron affinities, and binding energies are in reasonable agreement with experimental data, as well as with other theoretical results.

International audienceThis article provides a brief overview of the quantum chemical auxiliary density functional theory program deMon2k. A basic introduction into its key computational features is given. By selected examples, it is shown how deMon2k can contribute to the elucidation of problems in chemistry, biology, and materials science such as finite temperature effects, nuclear magnetic resonance studies, structure determinations, heterogeneous, and enzymatic catalysi