Energy pooling process in rubidium vapour

Abstract

The 'quasi-resonant' energy pooling process in a rubidium vapour (Rb(5p2P32/)+Rb(5p2P32/)+68 cm-1 to Rb(5d)+Rb(5s2S12/)) is experimentally investigated. An asymptotic theoretical model is applied to this reaction and gives a cross section (1*10-14 cm2) close to the experimental value (3*10-14 cm2). The results are discussed together with available data for other alkali atoms.