I'm studying energy transfer and upconversion processes. The process of ground state absorption followed by excited state absorption involves a metastable intermediate state, whereas a process of two-photon absorption involves a virtual intermediate state. I understand the general concept of both types of processes, however, I want to have a clear picture of metastable and virtual states.
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$\begingroup$ Please edit the question to limit it to a specific problem with enough detail to identify an adequate answer. $\endgroup$– Community BotCommented Oct 31, 2023 at 16:24
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A virtual state is the result of an externally applied field. Take away the field, there's no virtual state. But a metastable state persists even if the field that excited it is removed.
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$\begingroup$ Thanks! I consider your answer helpful, and indeed it makes sense. Thx $\endgroup$ Commented Nov 8, 2023 at 16:55