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We systematically investigate growth patterns of small silver clusters, Agn (n ≤ 10), using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT), considering Ag2, Ag3, and Ag4 as basic building units. Nearest-neighbor distances increase gradually with increasing n. Compared with an earlier study, where the clusters were developed by adding one atom at a time, the clusters derived in this investigation had considerably higher computed binding energies, confirming increased stability and suggesting possible growth patterns using these basic units. We used TDDFT methods to simulate the ultraviolet–visible spectra of the silver clusters, which are in good agreement with the reported experimental absorption spectrum of Ag nanoparticles. Our study indicates that the clusters formed with units of Ag3 tend to form more reactive clusters, particularly if an odd number of atoms is involved. Further, the higher level of computations employed gives better insight into the process of particle growth. The disproportionation energies of clusters built using this scheme are compared with those built one atom at a time. Mulliken population analysis of the distributions indicates the presence of polarities among the atoms in some of the cluster isomers, suggesting sites of increased activity. In addition, patterns established for the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO), lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO), and HOMO–LUMO energy gaps may be used to model stable clusters with modified optoelectrical properties.

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