Lifetime calculations in Yb II

Oscillator strengths and lifetime values for YbII levels have been calculated within the framework of a pseudo-relativistic Hartree-Fock (HFR) approximation combined with a least-squares fitting of the calculated eigenvalues to the observed energy levels. A considerable amount of configuration interaction together with core-polarization effects have been included in the calculations. The quality of the HFR results has been assessed through a comparison with data obtained using the completely independent relativistic quantum defect orbital (RQDO) method. The theoretical lifetimes reported in the present paper are now in good agreement with most of the accurate experimental values available. The origin of the persisting discrepancies is suggested.