The influence of quantum interference effects on the resonance fluorescence spectra of a degenerate three-level atom

The resonance fluorescence spectra of a degenerate three-level atom of the V-type in the field of an intense monochromatic wave with an arbitrary pola rization composition are investigated. Analytical expressions are derived f or the resonance fluorescence spectra, and the angular distribution of spon taneous fluorescence of atoms is analyzed for the D-line emitted by vapors of alkali atoms. It is shown that the number of lines in the spectrum may d ecrease in the case of the linear polarization of spontaneous radiation. Th e radiation relaxation operator is obtained for the D-line of alkali metals in the case when an atom is near the metal surface. Interference effects f or such systems are analyzed. (C) 2001 MAIK "Nauka/Interperiodica".