The linear polarization signals produced by scattering processes in strong
resonance lines are rich in information on the magnetic and thermal structure
of the chromosphere and transition region of the Sun and of other stars. A
correct modeling of these signals requires accounting for partial frequency
redistribution effects, as well as for the impact of quantum interference
between different fine structure levels (J-state interference). In this paper,
we present a theoretical approach suitable for modeling the transfer of
resonance line polarization when taking these effects into account, along with
an accurate numerical method of solution of the problem's equations. We
consider a two-term atom with unpolarized lower term and infinitely sharp lower
levels, in the absence of magnetic fields. We show that by making simple formal
substitutions on the quantum numbers, the theoretical approach derived here for
a two-term atom can also be applied to describe a two-level atom with hyperfine
structure. An illustrative application to the MgII doublet around 2800A is
presented.Comment: Accepted for publication in Astronomy & Astrophysic
