New odd-parity high-lying energy levels of the europium atom by resonance ionization spectroscopy

Odd-parity energy levels of the neutral europium atom (Eu I) have been investigated by employing both single-colour and two-colour stepwise laser excitation using the technique of resonance ionization spectroscopy in a heat-pipe thermionic diode system. Fifty-two new odd-parity energy levels of Eu I have been found in the energy region 40 575-43 410 cm-1. The J values for most of these new energy levels have been assigned unambiguously. In addition to this, 19 odd levels which were reported earlier, in the region of our present study, have also been investigated; the assignments of J values to nine of these levels have been confirmed and four levels, which had no unique J assignments, have been assigned definite J values. (author)