Zero-field quantum beats in the electron-impact excitation of sodium

Journal Article · Mon Jun 15 04:00:00 EDT 1981 · Phys. Rev. Lett.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.46.1569· OSTI ID:6450359

Teubner, P J.O.; Furst, J E; Tonkin, M C; Buckman, S J

We report the first observation of zero-field quantum beats in the electron-impact excitation of an atomic state. The effect has been observed in electron-photon coincidence experiments on the 3/sup 2/P state in sodium. The beats arise from the influence of the hyperfine structure in the J = 3/2 level of the excited state.

• Research Organization: Institute of Atomic Studies, The Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042
• OSTI ID: 6450359
• Journal Information: Phys. Rev. Lett.; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Rev. Lett.; (United States) Vol. 46:24; ISSN PRLTA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

640304* -- Atomic
Molecular & Chemical Physics-- Collision Phenomena
74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS
ALKALI METALS
ATOM COLLISIONS
COLLISIONS
ELECTRON COLLISIONS
ELECTRON-ATOM COLLISIONS
ELEMENTS
ENERGY LEVELS
ENERGY-LEVEL TRANSITIONS
EXCITATION
HYPERFINE STRUCTURE
METALS
P STATES
SODIUM
TIME DEPENDENCE