Observing spin-changing atom–molecule collisions with quantum-state precision provides clues of short-range interactions. Now it is shown that the outcomes of the KRb + Rb collision only align with a statistical model after assuming the non-conservation of mechanical angular momentum. The observations also contradict coupled-channel calculations that neglect vibrations and conical intersections.
- Yi-Xiang Liu
- Lingbang Zhu
- Kang-Kuen Ni
