Cross Sections for the Quenching of Hg(6s6p1P1)

Absolute cross sections for the quenching of Hg(6s6p1P1) by simple molecules were measured by employing a Stern–Volmer type intensity measurement combined with a phase-shift measurement of effective radiative lifetime. The cross sections are approximately gas kinetic, except for rare gas atoms and tetrafluoromethane. The cross sections can be correlated with the C6 long-range force parameter to the power 0.52.