Theoretical study on regularity of changes in quantum defects in Rydberg state series of many-valence electron atoms within WBEPM theory

Within the scheme of the weakest bound electron potential model theory, the regularity of changes in quantum defects in 40 "spectrum-level-like series " of several many-valence electron atoms of the third period was studied. T he n-delta curves of the 40 spectrum-level-like series could be classified into three types; for all such series the quantum defects delta could be ex panded as a polynomial of the principal quantum number n in a spectrum-leve l-like series. With regularity, the level energies of high Rydberg states i n a series can be predicted accurately. By carefully studying and explainin g the three types of 40 n-delta curves, the conclusion was reached: the typ e of the n-delta curve, i.e., the regularity of changes in quantum defects in a spectrum-level-like series, was determined by both the energy level an d the azimuthal quantum number l of the weakest bound electron. (C) 2001 Jo hn Wiley & Sons, Inc.