Photoionization of KCs Molecule: Origin of the Structured Continuum?

Abstract

We report the experimental observation of photoionization bands of the KCs molecule in the deep ultraviolet spectral region between 200 and 420 nm. We discuss the origin of observed photoionization bands as stemming from the absorption from the ground state of the KCs molecule to the excited states of KCs+ molecule for which we used existing potential curves of the KCs+ molecule. An alternative explanation relies on the absorption from the ground state of the KCs molecule to the doubly excited states of the KCs** molecule, situated above the lowest molecular state of KCs+. The relevant potential curves of KCs** are not known yet, but all those KCs** potential curves are certainly autoionizing. However, these two photoionization pathways may interfere resulting in a special interference structured continuum, which is observed as complex bands.

Data for Photodissociation of Some Small Molecular Ions Relevant for Astrochemistry and Laboratory Investigation

“…One can note the current importance of the investigation of optical properties of various small molecules and corresponding atomic and molecular data [12][13][14][15][16][17]. Here, we investigate the photodissociation processes that occur in non-symmetric systems that contain hydrogen and helium, and alkali atoms, ions, and molecular-ions.…”

Photodestruction of Diatomic Molecular Ions: Laboratory and Astrophysical Application

“…The charge transfer in collision of alkali atoms with protons affects the ionization balance in the atmospheres of various environments such as planets, dwarf stars, and the interstellar medium, and is of interest in the area of plasma fusion as a method of energetic neutral beam injection in fusion reactors [ 19 ]. Also, one can note the current importance of investigation of optical properties of various small molecules (see e.g., [ 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 ]) and corresponding atomic and molecular (A & M) data.…”