<b><i>R</i></b>-matrix calculation of the bound and continuum states of the - system

Abstract

A comprehensive theoretical study of NO Rydberg states and of Feshbach resonances associated with excited states of is made for an internuclear separation of 2.175 . Calculations are performed using the UK R-matrix molecular package. The lowest four target states (, , and ) are considered in the construction of the CI target wavefunction. Quantum defect theory is employed to analyse the multiple Rydberg series obtained. In the bound-states region of the NO spectrum, six Rydberg series are resolved and quantum defects are given up to n = 11. In the continuum spectrum, Rydberg series of resonances converging to the three excited states of considered are identified and compared with available experimental data. Some previous assignments for both bound and continuum states are reinterpreted and the dominant source of partial-wave mixing re-analysed. Data for the resonance widths are presented for the first time.