O(1<i>D</i>) lifetime shortening in SF6 matrix

Abstract

Using a xenon resonance lamp emitting photons at 8.4 eV, CO2 isolated in an SF6 matrix was studied. O(1D) was formed during the photolysis of the matrix sample at 4.5 K. The continuum emission which corresponds to the CO2 (Ã 3B2→X̃ 1∑+g ) transition was also observed. The lifetime of this continuum was measured and found to be 451±25 ms. The lifetime of the O(1D) level was measured for the first time in the SF6 matrix and found to be 780±10 ms. This shortening of the O(1D) level lifetime is attributed to the external heavy atom effect, which enhances the spin–orbit coupling induced by the matrix.