“…The electron jump mechanism is often believed to be a suitable representation of the mechanism for the M + RX, X 2 reactions (M ) alkali metal, alkaline earth metal; X ) halogen). 3,21,43 In this picture an electron jumps from the metal atom to the molecular reactant, resulting in a strong Coulombic force pulling the reactants together. The low ionization potential of Sr( 3 P 1 ) facilitates an electron jump.…”