Laser action ofnd 8(n + 1)s 2 ?nd 9(n + 1)p transitions in HgIII,Cull and AgII

A mechanism of the laser action of 5d ⁸ 6s ² –5d ⁹ 6p HgIII transitions is proposed. The explanation is based on atomic constants of the transitions and the predominant role of direct electron excitation of the upper laser level. The kinetic models of electron beam and hollow cathode discharge sources are calculated. The theoretical estimations are compared with experimental data and possible laser transitions are also proposed. The role of electron impact excitation in the formation of inverse population for two-electron transitions in CuII and AgII obtained in hollow cathode discharges is discussed.