Solvated electrons’ metallic transition resolved with spectroscopy

Scientists have come closer to solving the mysteries surrounding solvated electrons: free electrons stabilised in solvent cavities. In their archetypal ammoniated form, they produce an inky blue electrolyte at low electron concentrations and a bronze metallic liquid at high concentrations. By obtaining the first ever photoelectron spectra of this system, the researchers suggest that there is a smooth transition between these states as the concentration increases – and not an abrupt switch like other studies had proposed.