Three-step resonance ionization of zirconium with Ti:Sapphire lasers

摘要

Three-step resonance ionization of atomic zirconium using Ti:Sapphire lasers is investigated for the first time. We have located eight new excited states between 41,160 and 41,824 cm(-1) that could serve as the intermediate state for the second-step transition. Three-step ionization paths via two of the newly observed states have been studied and numerous high-lying and autoionizing levels are observed. Eight new Rydberg series of odd-parity are identified in the photoionization spectra. The convergence limits of these Rydberg series allow us to determine the first ionization potential of Zr to be 53,507.832(35)(stat)(20)(sys)cm(-1) with an order of magnitude improvement in uncertainty over the previous measurements. In addition, our measurements for one of the selected three-step paths show that the transitions can be saturated with low to moderate laser powers.