Study of ionization processes of highly excited Rydberg atoms by collision with molecules

久人 平石

R. F. Stebbings, F. G. Kellert, G. F. Hildebrandt +3 more

K. A. Smith, F. G. Kellert, R. D. Rundel +2 more

In collisions with N${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ molecules it is observed that $\mathrm{Xe}(\mathrm{nf})$ Rydberg atoms are selectively excited to discrete, more highly excited states. These states are identified by the technique of field ionization and are found to be displaced in energy from the initial Rydberg states by amounts equal to the rotational spacings of the N${\mathrm{H}}_{3}$ molecule. These measurements demonstrate, for the first time, the conversion of rotational energy to electronic energy in collisions.

Борис М. Смирнов

The properties of highly excited atoms are examined. Methods for producing and detecting such atoms are analyzed. Various processes that involve atoms in Rydberg states are described, including transitions between high-lying excited states induced by collisions with electrons and atoms, quenching by electrons and atoms, ionization by collisions with electrons, atoms, and molecules, charge exchange with ions, and so on.

Michio Matsuzawa

D. Tong, S. M. Farooqi, S. Krishnan +7 more