Ab initio investigation of the potential energy surfaces of C₂H₂F₂ and C₂H₂F₂⁺

Ab initio MO calculations have been performed for neutral and cationic C₂H₂F₂ structures. Olefinic and carbene structures are investigated for the neutral isomers, while olefinic, carbene, and fluoronium‐type cations are found. Stability orders and rotational barriers are discussed in terms of orbital and Coulomb interaction. Contrary to previous studies, the higher stability of the geminal isomers is interpreted to be caused by Coulomb attraction.