Abstract

Selective excitation of the ${b^{\prime }}^1{\sum }_u^{+}$ valence state of molecular nitrogen using a single laser source is described. The excitation process utilizes a two-photon transition to the intermediate a ¹Π_g state followed by a single-photon transition to the target state. The excitation is confirmed by observation of the VUV emission from the b′ state to high-vibrational levels of the ground molecular state. The b′-state population of N₂ is estimated to be greater than 10¹³ cm⁻³. Generation of highly excited atomic nitrogen following the two-photon excitation of the a 1Π_g molecular state is reported.

© 1980 Optical Society of America

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