Resonant ionization in slow-atom-Rydberg-atom collisions

Abstract
The process of ionization in slow-atom-Rydberg-atom collisions is investigated. A resonant energy exchange mechanism is considered responsible for the electron transition into the continuum. Both symmetrical and asymmetrical systems are considered. The ionization probabilities and cross sections for a number of Rydberg states in the colliding systems H*(n)+H, Li*(n)+Li, H*(n)+Li are calculated.