Laser induced photoemission electron and the generation of high Rydberg states of atoms and molecules

Laser induced photoemission electron was produced by directing 532 nm and/or 355 nm onto stainless steel plate on a time of flight mass spectrometer. Multiple charged ions and high Rydberg states of atoms or molecules were successfully generated by impacts of the photoemission electrons. The high Rydberg states (n ∼ 40–100) thus produced were separated from ions, produced by direct electron impact ionization, by a 3 V DC electric field and then ionized by a delayed pulsed HV electric field in a ZEKE-PFI manner. Relationship between generation/property of high Rydberg states of atoms/molecules and experimental conditions could be investigated. Relationship between the electron accelerating voltage and high Rydberg states of Ar was described.