Rank-6 symmetry in energy transfer collisions is observed. A Ca(4s4f${,}^1$${\mathit{F}}_3$) state is prepared by three-photon excitation. The angular wave function of the Ca${(}^1$${\mathit{F}}_3$) state depends on the angles of the three laser polarizations with respect to each other. The alignment effect for energy transfer, Ca(4s4f${,}^1$${\mathit{F}}_3$)+He→Ca(4${\mathit{p}}^2$${,}^1$${\mathit{S}}_0$)+He, is determined for two different initial angular wave functions. Each alignment curve can be analyzed in terms of the same set of relative cross sections for the individual Ca${(}^1$${\mathit{F}}_3$) magnetic sublevels, providing an independent verification of the data.

• Received 15 January 1991

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.44.R1431