Abstract
We present precise results for the binding energies and sizes of the [Formula Presented] ion moving across a strong pulsar-type magnetic field. Similarly to the previously studied case of hydrogen, the ion is strongly deformed by the action of the motion-induced Stark forces. Unlike the case of the neutral hydrogen atom whose transverse motion gives rise—for every discrete state of the nonmoving atom—to a continuum of displaced energy states with changing transverse momentum, transverse motion of the [Formula Presented] ion gives rise to a discretely spaced energy spectrum. A quantitative understanding of this problem and related opacities is central in modeling neutron star atmospheres, and should help in the interpretation of thermal emission from radio pulsars.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 180-185 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Physical Review A - Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics |
Volume | 58 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1998 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics