Combining radio-frequency guided ion beams with supersonic molecular beams: recent advancements in the investigation of ion-molecule reactions

This article gives an outline of recent advancements in the investigation of ion-molecule reactions. Conventional beam experiments are being discussed. Different and more recent developments are based on the successful attempt to combine the ideal characteristics for low-energy studies of a GIP apparatus (ion guided beams) with the merits of beam-beam experiments. Other versions include a variable temperature ion trap for cooling the primary ions. (Suda)