Observations on metastable neon atoms in hollow-cathode discharges

Abstract

Previous work on the intensity versus current relationship for Ne l spectral lines emitted by iron hollow-cathode lamps with neon as the carrier gas has been extended. Spectral line profiles have been recorded with a pressure scanning Fabry-Pérot interferometer. Lines corresponding to transitions to the metastable state 3s[3/2]⁰₂ exhibit self-reversal and broadening due to self-absorption. This indicates the existence of a high density of neon atoms in this state, which is the likely intermediate level in two-step excitation processes.