Experimental Afterglows with Balmer Decrements Relevant to Astronomical Spectra

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Abstract
The electron-capture form of Balmer decrement expected in some astronomical spectra cannot be isolated by ordinary laboratory use of fast electrons; the afterglow of a low voltage, high current, radio-frequency ring discharge is therefore examined sufficiently far away from glass walls. Electron multiplier measurement is used, with calibration to absolute intensities, and precautions are taken to obtain the afterglow free from survivals of applied voltage. Pure hydrogen and hydrogen–neon and hydrogen–helium mixtures are investigated. The portions of the decrement resembling a Boltzmann distribution of excitation are distinguished from those which suggest a recombination law, and divergences from either are examined for self-absorption, overpopulation of low energy states, radiationless de-excitation of higher states, etc., in view of likely distortions of astronomical Balmer decrement, notably in red stars, Be stars, and the “Balmer progression” of peculiar stars.

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