This expression refers to the reaction, with each other, of two transient species produced from a common precursor in solution. If reaction occurs before any separation by diffusion has occurred, this is termed primary geminate recombination. If the mutually reactive entities have been separated, and come together by diffusion, this is termed secondary geminate recombination. This is illustrated in the reaction diagram below:
G02603.png
See also: cage
Sources:
PAC, 1994, 66, 1077. 'Glossary of terms used in physical organic chemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 1994)' on page 1117 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199466051077)
PAC, 1996, 68, 149. 'A glossary of terms used in chemical kinetics, including reaction dynamics (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)' on page 166 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199668010149)