Atomic f-value measurements of high Rydberg members by pulsed laser-based magneto-optical spectroscopy

Abstract

The authors describe a novel experimental technique, based on synchronizing pulsed Bitter coils with pulsed tunable laser sources in the ultraviolet, which allows a Faraday rotation method, originally developed for accurate f-value measurements of high Rydberg members with synchrotron radiation to be extended, both in available magnetic field strength and in spectral resolution. By applying their technique, they have extended accurate measurements of f-values for the principal series of Ba I from around n=15, where earlier measurements by the hook method become inaccurate, to n=42, well beyond the present capabilities of alternative experimental methods. Similarly, they have extended earlier magneto-optical measurements for Sr I from n=25 to n=43. Advantages of the new experimental approach are discussed.