Spectral analysis of ionized noble gases and implications for astronomy and laser studies

Abstract

Studies of emission spectra of noble gas ions have been carried out in La Plata for more than 35 years, several of them in collaboration with other groups. Knowledge of the wavelengths, intensities and shapes of the lines of different species of neon, argon, krypton and xenon in intermediate and high degrees of ionization is important not only to study plasma conditions, but also to help in the understanding of laser emission mechanisms. With the purpose of continuing this line of work we present an overview of some studies concerning the spectral analysis of several ions of noble gases with implications for astronomy and laser studies. The spectra were recorded from the vacuum ultraviolet to infrared regions, using pulsed discharges. In some cases time-series observations were made. Earlier analyses for these ions were revised and extended. New energy levels, classified lines and oscillator strengths were established. The results of these analyses were supported by using relativistic Hartree–Fock calculations.