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Fine-structure inelastic differential cross sections and B /sup 2/. sigma. potentials for the potassium rare gas interaction

Journal Article · · J. Chem. Phys.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6920749

Differential scattering cross sections for fine-structure inelastic collisions of potassium in its first excited state with various rare gases (Ne, Ar, Kr, and Xe) have been measured. This crossed molecular beams experiment uses cw-dye lasers for the excitation of the incident potassium beam and the detection of the fine-structure inelastic scattered potassium atoms. The collision energy has been varied between 92 and 199 meV. The differential cross sections exhibit for small collision energies Stueckelberg oscillations, which are due to interference of scattering on the attractive A /sup 2/Pi and the repulsive B /sup 2/..sigma.. potential. For higher collision energies these oscillations are missing at large angles. It is demonstrated that with the A /sup 2/Pi potential known from other sources the repulsive B /sup 2/..sigma.. potential can be determined. A shoulder in this repulsive potential is found to be responsible for the absence of the interference oscillations at higher scattering energies.

Research Organization:
Max-Planck-Institut f uer Stroemungsforschung, D3400 Goettingen, Federal Republic of Germany
OSTI ID:
6920749
Journal Information:
J. Chem. Phys.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Chem. Phys.; (United States) Vol. 89:5; ISSN JCPSA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English