Analysis and transition probabilities of the A 1Σ+→X 1Σ+ system of KH excited by the 4880 Å line of the argon ion laser

Abstract

The fluorescence spectrum of KH induced by the 4880 Å line of an argon ion laser has been analyzed. This work extends previous observations on potassium hydride in visible region by using this excitation line. Along with the principal fluorescence series for the A 1Σ+→X 1Σ+ band system, corresponding to the excitation transition, v′=7, J′=6←v″=0, J″=5, we analyzed a very interesting satellite rotational and vibrational structure induced by collision. The radiative transition probabilities for the A 1Σ+→X 1Σ+ band system of KH have been calculated by using hybrid potential energy curves for the X 1Σ+ and A 1Σ+ states and transition dipole moment function from the radiative lifetimes of different vibrational levels (v′=5−22 in the A 1Σ+ state) reported by Giroud and Nedelec. The transition probabilities and lifetimes are in good agreement with the corresponding observed measurements usually within the experimental uncertainty. Collision-induced rotational and vibrational energy transfer in the A 1Σ+ state has been investigated. From the rotational and vibrational satellite structure of some bands, cross sections for rotational and vibrational energy transfer have been determined.