Muonium chemistry in solution

Muonium (Mu) is the atom composed of a 1s orbital electron with a short-lived positive muon as its nucleus. It is used with the symbol Mu and has the attributes of a light isotope of hydrogen (0H). It differs from 1H in having one-ninth of the atomic mass and three-times the nuclear moment. Comparisons of Mu with 1H thus provide an excellent tool to study kinetic isotope effects and isotopic hyperfine splittings. In addition, the techniques used to study muonium are based on the muons unique spin-polarisation properties which make them particularly versatile. In some cases Mu can be observed in situations where ordinary hydrogen atoms cannot be seen. An attempt is made here to review some of these highlights. (author). 32 refs., 5 tabs., 6 figs