Variational estimates of the energies of the lowest-lying M=-1 (p-like) and M=-2 (d-like) states of the ${\mathrm{H}}^{\mathrm{-}}$ ion or its analog in bulk semiconductors, the ${\mathit{D}}^{\mathrm{-}}$ ion, are presented as functions of magnetic field over a wide range of field strengths. The energies found, using Chandrasekar-type wave functions, appear to be the most accurate yet reported. Numerical evidence is presented which indicates that, contrary to previous belief, the M=-1 singlet state does bind, but only at high fields.

• Received 28 September 1992

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.47.13175