The primary objective of this U.S.-Hungary cooperative research project between Dr. Howard Bryant of the University of New Mexico and Dr. Janos Bergou of the Central Research Institute for Physics, Budapest, is to apply novel experimental methods to explore the details of photoionization processes in the simple atom H-. Work will concentrate on four specific-topics of interest in photo-atom interactions and collision physics: (1) photodetachment of H- near threshold in an energy field; (2) two electron photoionization (3) production of highly excited Ryberg states; and (4) multiphoton ionization of H-. Results of these collaborative efforts would extend fundamental knowledge of three-body (atom) dynamics in the presence of external fields, thereby contributing to our understanding of the principles that govern atomic structure. This project in theoretical physics fulfills the program objective of advancing scientific knowledge by enabling leading experts in the United States and Eastern Europe to combine complementary talents and pool research resources in areas of strong mutual interest and competence.
