Radiative lifetimes of 4snflF3 states of calcium

Abstract

By using stepwise excitation and the pulse-modulated laser spectroscopy technique, lifetimes of 4snf1F3 states have been measured for n = 4, 5, and 6. These states were reached by photon absorption from the intermediate 4s 3d1D2 metastable state populated by a dc discharge. Values obtained for the lifetimes were τ(4f1F3) = 24.6(1.4)ns, τ(5f1F3) = 62.1(2)ns, and τ(6f1F3) = 99(4)ns. Results have been compared with the t values obtained for some of these levels by other authors using the Hanley method and single-pulse excitation techniques.