A central-field approximation is used to calculate generalized oscillator strengths (GOS) for a number of discrete and continuous transitions in the noble gases, the alkalis, and Hg, where experimental data exist. The comparisons show that this approximation yields good agreement with experiment except for the first few discrete excitations in low-$Z$ and certain high-$Z$ elements, and in the region of large peaks near threshold in continuum transitions. The reasons for the discrepancies are pointed out, in terms of the approximations made, and the usefulness of this type of calculation is discussed.

• Received 27 August 1971

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.5.668