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Multichannel quantum-defect theory of lifetimes for highly excited states of atoms: Calculation of Yb lifetimes in the perturbed 6/ital snd/ /sup 1,3/D/sub 2/ sequences

Journal Article · · Phys. Rev. A; (United States)

By combining the quantum theory of radiative transition with multichannel quantum-defect theory, we have derived a general formula to calculate the lifetimes of highly excited states for atoms. As an example, we have evaluated the lifetimes for the perturbed 6/ital snd/ /sup 1/D/sub 2/ (/ital n/=8--40) and 6/ital snd/ /sup 3/D/sub 2/ (/ital n/=10--26) Rydberg levels, and the perturbers of the ytterbium atom. We have not only obtained results that are in perfect agreement with the recent measurements, but also predicted the lifetimes of 18 other highly excited states. The results indicate that the dramatic variation for lifetimes of Rydberg states in the vicinity of perturbing states is due to the strong channel interaction.

Research Organization:
Physics Department, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou, China (CN); China Center of Advanced Science and Technology (World Laboratory), P.O. Box 8730, Beijing, China; Institute of Atomic and Molecular Physics, Jilin University, Changchun, China
OSTI ID:
6030380
Journal Information:
Phys. Rev. A; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Rev. A; (United States) Vol. 40:4; ISSN PLRAA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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