A simple model for calculating the index of refraction of Neon I and Neon* (3s) in the cavity of a Xenon Fluoride laser.

Abstract

A model for calculating the index of refraction of atomic species present in the cavity of a Xenon Fluoride Laser is applied to Neon and Neon*(3s) . The model considers the variation from unity to be a function of the absorption cross section. Below the ionization threshold, the cross section is a set of discrete transitions between the various energy levels of the specie of concern. Above the 5p level, the discrete transitions become indistinct and the continuum cross section function is extended into this region. The continuum cross section function is a polynomial function fitted to independent research results. The results for Neon I agree with previous theoretical and experimental results. The model is extended to Neon*(3s). Comparison with the results of independent research of the polarizability and cavity phase shift derived from the calculation indicate accuracy is within ten percent.