On the collision quenching of N2+(B2Σu+, v=0) by N2 and O2 and its influence on the measurement of E/N by intensity ratio of nitrogen spectral bands

Laser induced fluorescence measurements of the rate coefficients of N-2(+) (B (2)Sigma(+)(u), v = 0) collision quenching by N-2 and O-2 are presented. The values of (8.84 +/- 0.37) x 10(-10) cm(3) s(-1) and (10.45 +/- 0.45) x 10(-10) cm(3) s(-1) have been found for N-2 and O-2, respectively. The present results agree well with the literature data obtained by selective methods for ion B state excitation. The data are discussed in the framework of the spectroscopic evaluation of the reduced electric field in electrical discharges at high pressure, which makes use of the second positive system and first negative system emissions of nitrogen.