Ultraviolet Absorption of Solid Argon, Krypton, and Xenon

Abstract

The absorption spectra of thin films of argon, krypton, and xenon have been measured between 20 and 50\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K in the region from 1600 to 900 \AA{} (8 to 14 eV). The spectra show: (a) strong doublets corresponding to the atomic resonance doublets, (b) lines apparently of nonatomic nature, and (c) absorption continua. The experimental results are discussed in terms of the Frenkel and Wannier exciton models and the band gaps are estimated. Reasonable agreement is found between experimental results and available theoretical predictions.