The dissociation energies and ionization potentials of gaseous monoxides and dioxides of some metals are surveyed, and best values for these quantities are given. In addition, a survey is made of the kinetic data for the formation and destruction of these species and the results are tabulated. The relationship of these quantities to atmospheric composition is discussed, and it is shown that monoxide ions are converted to metal ions very quickly by reaction with atomic oxygen. (Author)