Soft x-ray gain in the alkali earths

Area of Science:

• Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
• Laser Physics
• Quantum Electronics

Background:

• Previous attempts to achieve laser gain in low-pressure sodium vapor at 372 A were unsuccessful.
• High X-ray pumping power did not yield the desired gain, necessitating alternative approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the feasibility of achieving significant laser gain in alkali-earth vapors.
• To explore the application of tunable dye lasers for population inversion in laser systems.
• To theoretically evaluate the potential for laser gain in calcium and other alkali-earth elements.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical calculations were performed to model laser gain in alkali-earth vapors.
• The proposed method utilizes tunable dye lasers to reduce lower laser level population.
• Analysis included consideration of Auger decay as a limiting factor for the upper laser level.

Main Results:

• Calculations indicate that alkali-earth vapors could achieve laser gains of 1-3 cm(-1).
• The presence of an additional outer electron in alkali-earths is crucial for the dye laser scheme.
• Auger decay was identified as a potential limitation, particularly in calcium, but calculations suggest it may not be severe.

Conclusions:

• Alkali-earth vapors are a promising alternative for achieving laser gain compared to sodium vapor.
• The proposed dye laser scheme offers a viable method for substantial population reduction.
• Further investigation into pre-excitation schemes for alkali-earths is recommended to mitigate Auger decay effects.