Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

2-1-1993

Abstract

We calculated the time of pairing by quantum diffusion of ortho-H2 impurities in solid para-H2. The important feature of the pairing process is a strong directional bias associated with the dependence of the hopping rates on energy mismatches caused by the interaction of the pairing particles. This bias at moderate temperatures is against a mutual approach of particles and creates a ‘‘kinetic barrier.’’ At lower temperatures, the corresponding diffusion mechanism freezes out, which leads to a rapid increase in pairing rates. This explains a well-developed, experimentally observed maximum in the pairing time as a function of temperature: a maximum that exists in spite of a monotonic temperature dependence of individual hopping rates. Our results are in good agreement with experimental data.

Publisher Statement

© 1993 The American Physical Society

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