The rate coefficients for the processes of (n − n′)-mixing in collisions of Rydberg atoms H*(n) with H(1s) atoms

Abstract

This paper presents the results of semi-classical calculations of rate coefficients of (n − n′)-mixing processes in collisions of Rydberg atoms H*(n) with H(1s) atoms. These processes have been modelled by the mechanism of the resonant energy exchange within the electron component of the H*(n) + H collisional system. The calculations of the rate coefficients, based on this model, were performed for the series of principal quantum numbers, n and n′, and atomic, Ta, and electronic, Te, temperatures. It was shown that these processes can be of significant influence on the populations of Rydberg atoms in weakly ionized plasmas (ionization degree ⪅10−4), and therefore have to be included in appropriate models of such plasmas.