On the formation of exotic atoms

A general disagreement exists between theory and experiment in the field of formation and decay of muonic and pionic atoms. Allowing for collisional processes in the deexcitation of heavy exotic atoms can substantially change the interpretation of experimental Coulomb-capture ratios, particularly of those measured by the muonic X-ray method.Presented at the symposium Mesons and Light Nuclei, Bechyn, Czechoslovakia, May 27–June 1, 1985.The author is grateful to Prof. F. Measday (Univ. of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada) and Dr. J. Révai (C. R. I. P., Budapest) for illuminating discussions.