LASER ACTION OF ND(8)(N-ND(9)(N+1)P TRANSITIONS IN HGIII, CUII AND AGII(1)S(2))

A mechanism of the laser action of 5d(8) 6s(2) -5d(9) 6p HgIII transit ions is proposed. The explanation is based on atomic constants of the transitions and the predominant role of direct electron excitation of the upper laser level. The kinetic models of electron beam and hollow cathode discharge sources are calculated. The theoretical estimations are compared with experimental data and possible laser transitions are also proposed. The role of electron impact excitation in the formatio n of inverse population for two-electron transitions in CuII and AgII obtained in hollow cathode discharges is discussed.