Ionization of metastable He(1s2s) atoms by alkalated surfaces

We calculate the ionization probability for singlet and triplet metastable He(1s2s) atoms scattered from potassium covered surfaces, on the basis of the resonant tunnelling process. We do not assume the trajectory approximation, but we do assume classical motion on the potential energy curves, with crossing between neutral and ionic curves at a given point calculated from electronic tunnelling probabilities. Energy spectra of the He⁺ ions are also calculated. The results are found to be somewhat sensitive to tunnelling probability as a function of distance from the surface. Results are compared with experimental ionization probabilities measured by Roussel. The agreement is found to be fair if the tunneling rate is parameterized according to the theory of Janev et al. A simple interpretation is given.