Mass scaling in photoassociation of spin-singlet atoms

Photoassociation spectroscopy, based on forming of molecules from colliding atoms in the presence of light, is a priceless tool for the study of atomic interactions. It enables direct measurements of bound state energies, both in excited and ground state molecules. Applications include determinations of s-wave scattering lengths, as well as atomic state lifetimes. In this work we present the results of our research on the mass-scaling behaviour of molecular bound state energies and collisional properties in spin-singlet atoms. We will concentrate on two such species: strontium and ytterbium, both of which offer several stable isotopes, enabling mass tuning of the system s properties.