Analysis of the spectrum of Dy 3+:LaF 3 assuming a C2 v site symmetry

Abstract

Previous successful analyses of the observed crystal-field structure in Tm 3+:LaF 3 and Ho 3+:LaF 3 in an approximate C 2 v site symmetry have depended on a crystal-field model derived in an analysis of the spectrum of Er 3+:LaF 3. In the present investigation the predictions of this same model are compared with the observed crystal-field structure in Dy 3+:LaF 3. The energy parameters resulting from a least-squares fit of the corresponding spectral assignments are reported. To help clarify the physical situation, some comparisons are offered between C 2 v and D 3 h crystal-field models for these Ln 3+: LaF 3 systems.