Weak hyperfine structure measurement using the magnetic repolarization effect: Application to N = 1 v = 1 (1s 3d)1Σ level of H2

International audienceThe magnetic repolarization effect is studied in the case where the hyperfine structure (AI . J) of the considered excited atomic or molecular level is weaker than the natural width Γ. General expressions are given. It is shown that the amplitude of this effect varies as (A/Γ)2 and that its value permits the determination of A when one compares the magnetic repolarization and depolarization effects. Such an effect is experimentally studied in the N = 1, v = 1 (1s 3d)1Σ level of H2. A value of A = 1+/-0.17) MHz is deduced, corresponding to A/Γ = 0.15