Lifetimes and oscillator strengths in the triplet system of ZnI

Selective laser excitation was used to measure the radiative lifetimes of the ZnI triplet states 4sns ³ S ₁(n=5–7) and 4snd ³ D ₃,³ D ₂ and³ D ₁(n=4–6). These states were excited from the metastable 4s4p ³ P states, which were collisionally populated in an atomic beam. The values are compared with the results of other experimental methods (beam-foil, pulsed electron excitation, Hanle effect) and with theoretical calculations. The corresponding oscillator strengths are discussed with respect to the astrophysical determination of the Zn photospheric abundance.