A simple model for f→d transitions of rare-earth ions in crystals

• Published in: Journal of solid state chemistry Vol. 171; no. 1-2; pp. 299 - 303
• Main Authors: Duan, C.K., Reid, M.F.
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: San Diego, CA Elsevier Inc 15-02-2003; Elsevier
• Subjects: Condensed matter: electronic structure, electrical, magnetic, and optical properties; Electron states; Exact sciences and technology; Impurity and defect levels; Other nonmetals; Physics; Phosphates; Selection rules; Energy-level transitions; Inorganic compounds; Hamiltonians; Doping; Vibronic transition; Rare earth additions; Fluorides; Experimental study; Impurity states
• ISSN: 0022-4596; 1095-726X
• DOI: 10.1016/S0022-4596(02)00181-0

Theoretical simulation and interpretation of f→d transitions of rare earth ions in crystals are more difficult than for f→f transitions, because f→d transitions involve many more energy levels and are further complicated by strong vibronic transitions, so the experimental spectra contain many fewer resolvable peaks. In order to better understand the structure of the spectra, a simple model is developed to take into account the main interactions in the fN−1d configuration. This model leads to quantum numbers characterizing the states and the associated transition selection rules. Relative transition intensities can be quantitatively estimated. The model is applied to Eu2+ and Sm3+ ions in crystals.