A quantum defect analysis of heavy Rydberg behaviour in the B (1Σu+) and B"(B)over-bar(1Σu+ )states of H2 and the B(1Σu+) state of D2

Heavy Rydberg behaviour in the B((1)Sigma(+)(u)) and B ''(B) over bar((1)Sigma(+)(u)) En ion-pair states of H-2 and the B((1)Sigma(+)(u)) En state of D-2, is analysed in terms of the absolute quantum defects of the vibronic levels. The influence of the inner repulsive wall of ion-pair potentials on heavy Rydberg behaviour is considered and shown to determine the size of both absolute quantum defects and their energy dependence. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.