Fine and hyperfine structure of ro-vibrational levels of the NaK $1\,^3\!\Delta$ states from $v=3$ to near the dissociation limit

POSTER

Abstract

Our previous high-resolution spectroscopic studies of the fine and hyperfine structure of ro-vibrational levels of the $1\,^3\!\Delta$ state of NaK have been extended to include vibrational levels up to $v = 59$, the highest of which are within $4~\mathrm{cm}^{-1}$ of the dissociation limit. Using the IPA method, a potential curve was determined that reproduces all measured levels ($3 \le v \le 59$) to an accuracy of $\sim 0.026\,\mathrm{cm}^{-1}$, and $C_6$ and $C_8$ coefficients have also been determined from the long range potential. The fine and hyperfine structure of the $1\,^3\!\Delta$ ro-vibrational levels were analyzed to determine the values $A_v$ and $b_{\mathrm{F}}$ of the spin-orbit coupling constant and the hyperfine Fermi contact constant. The measured fine and hyperfine structure for $v$ in the range $44 \le v \le 48$ exhibits anomalous behavior due to the mixing between the $1\,^3\!\Delta$ and $1\,^1\!\Delta$ states. The theoretical method has been extended to treat this interaction, and the results provide an accurate representation of the complicated patterns that arise. {\it Ab initio} calculations of the spin-orbit coupling constants $A_v$ are also underway.

*Work supported by NSF.

Authors

  • A. D. Wilkins

  • S. Jawalkar

  • J. Huennekens

  • A. P. Hickman

    • Lehigh University
  • L. Morgus

    • Drew University