Abstract

We have studied the selective autoionization process 6p_3/2np → 6p_1/2 + e^­ in atomic Ba, and have achieved inversion in Ba⁺ via this process. Using two lasers, neutral Ba is first excited from its 6s^{2 1}S_o ground state to a Rydberg state 6snp¹P_o, with a tunable laser near 247 nm. Another dye laser, near 455 nm, further excites the Ba to 6p_3/2np, where-upon the atom autoionizes. We have studied the excitation spectrum as a function of the wavelength of the second laser, and have found it similar to that observed in Ba 6p_3/2ns states.¹

© 1982 Optical Society of America