We report a comprehensive set of calculations of the lifetimes of Rydberg states in alkali-metal atoms, using realistic potentials to represent the atomic core. The effects due to core polarizability, spin-orbit interaction, and blackbody radiation are explicitly included. A complete cross reference listing of all available experimental lifetimes is also attempted. The results compare well with experiment for all principal quantum numbers $n$ examined and should provide guidance for future experimental investigations. The relation of the present approach to other works is discussed.

• Received 9 January 1984

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.30.2881