Time-resolved double-probe study in a He-Hg afterglow plasma

Abstract

A double-probe technique is described and a simplified model presented which together allow for the direct measurement of the time rate of change of the He+ ion density in a He-Hg afterglow plasma. Using this double-probe method we have obtained direct experimental evidence that the dominant excitation mechanism in the He-Hg+ laser is a charge-transfer collision of the form He++Hg→ (Hg+) **+He+ΔE.