Studies Involving Metastable Helium Atoms (Physics)

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The novel properties of He (2.3S) metastable atoms will form the theme of this research program. Electron spin labelling techniques will be used to explore the dynamics of Penning ionization reactions involving He(2.3S) atoms in an optically pumped flowing helium afterglow apparatus, which will also be used to investigate spin exchange in collisions between polarized electrons and open shell targets such as 0.2. The performance of the flowing helium afterglow as a source of polarized electrons will also be investigated utilizing newly developed lasers to optically orient the He(2.3S) electron spins. Conservation of spin angular momentum in He(2.3S). Penning reactions with closed shell partners will be exploited in a crossed beam apparatus to provide a new technique for absolute calibration of electron spin polarimeters. The interactions of He(2.3S) atoms at a liquid helium surface will be investigated, with expectation that the He(2.3S) atoms will be trapped there. Attempts will be made to modify these interactions by spin polarizing the He(2.3S) atoms.