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Abstract

Apparatus and process for isotopically selective multi-step photoionization in which the final or ionizing step is tuned to produce a specific transition to an excited state above ionization for which the ionization cross-section is substantially greater than for ionization transitions in general. The autoionization transition to an ionized state is typically made from a highly excited bound state which is reached in one or two isotopically selective energy jumps from the ground state or other low-lying levels. The isotope shift for the ionization transition is typically small compared to the bandwidth of the ionization transition and relatively broad band photoionization radiation covering the entire absorption line can be employed. Broad band radiation is more economic and is preferable for use wherever possible. A technique is also shown for identifying the ionization transitions of augmented cross-section.

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First Claim