Investigation of ScmOn- (m = 2-5, n = 2-3) clusters using photoelectron spectroscopy and density functional calculations

► ScmOn- (m = 2-5, n = 2-3) has the O atoms attached to the top, bridge, or hollow sites of Scm cluster. ► There is no direct interaction between the oxygen atoms. ► The addition of oxygen atoms weakens the Sc-Sc bonds of the Scm (m = 2-5) clusters.