On the spin-orbit induced radiationless decay of the b3Σ-state of BH

Abstract

The spin-orbit induced radiationless decay process b3Σ- → 13Σ+ in BH is studied. The spin-orbit coupling was determined within the Breit-Pauli approximation using MCSCF/CI wavefunctions. The radiationless decay life-times of the (b3Σ-, v, N, Fi ) fine structure levels were determined in a Hund's case (b) approximation. The (b3Σ-, v = 0–2, N = 80-15) levels are not significantly predissociated. However, a spin-orbit induced b3Σ- ∼ 13Σ+ perturbation of only 0·2 cm-1 results in appreciable predissociation of the ν′ = 3 (ν′ = 2) level in BH for low N (high N).