HgCl (B-X) Chemiluminescence from Alkali Atom - HgCl₂ Reactions

Abstract

Laser action on the B²Σ⁺ _1/2 → X²Σ⁺ _1/2 band of HgCl at 557.6 nm (v′=0→v″=22) has previously been achieved under a variety of electronic and optical excitation mechanisms. This letter describes a chemical mechanism for producing excited HgCl. We report on the gas phase reaction between alkali atoms (K, Rb, and Cs) and HgCl₂ which produces HgCl (B-X) emission.

Key Words:

• Mercury Halides
• Chemiluminescence