The 3s(2)3p(3) S-4->3s3p(3)(S-5)np P-4 transitions in atomic phosphorus

The photoabsorption spectrum of atomic phosphorus has been recorded in the 140-600 Angstrom region. The Beutler-Fano profiles due to autoionizing 3s(2)3p(3 4)S --> 3s3p(3)(S-5)np P-4 (5 less than or equal to n less than or equal to 14) transitions have been observed and fitted to a Rydberg series. Calculations made with the Cowan code show that interaction with the 3p(-2)3d4p (also written as 3s(2)3p3d4p) configuration is negligible, unlike the situation for 3s photoexcitation in Ar I.