Abstract
The measurements of Dieke and Crosswhite on the absorption spectrum of YbCl3·6H2O are discussed. Their interpretation of the spectrum is extended by the identification of two of the weaker lines. The entire spectrum is considered on the basis of crystal‐field theory, and the possibility of determining the parameters of the crystal‐field potential is assessed. It is suggested that this compound may be ferroelectric (or anti‐ferroelectric). The spin‐orbit coupling constant is determined to be —2924 cm‐1.

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