Journal of Physics B Atomic Molecular and Optical Physics
Energy-pooling ionization (EPI) in Ga vapour: electronic detection and cross section measurement
Stefania Barsanti, Paola Bicchi
Abstract
We report on the electronic detection of the energy-pooling ionization (EPI) process in resonantly laser-excited gallium vapour. The formation of electrons and ions in the collision of two Ga atoms excited to the 5 2 S 1/2 level is analysed as a function of several different parameters such as the laser power density, the atomic density and the temperature. The influence of the strong chemical reactivity of Ga at high temperatures on the process is also evidenced. Finally the cross section for the EPI process is derived from the electronic signals detected. It turns out to be (1.1±0.5)×10 -15 cm 2 , a large value that states EPI as a very efficient process in Ga vapour.