How to Determine Temperature and Line Widths in Spectroscopic Observations?

AI Thread Summary
To determine the temperature and line widths in spectroscopic observations of an interstellar gas cloud, the discussion focuses on calculating the temperature (T) using the provided Gaussian profile and the Doppler broadening formula. The participant initially calculates T to be approximately 2500 K, which is notably higher than typical interstellar cloud temperatures. There is uncertainty about the appropriateness of the formulas used for this calculation. Additionally, the participant seeks guidance on deriving the σ_{OI} value and the Full Width at Half Maximum for the Hβ line. The conversation emphasizes the need for accurate application of thermodynamic principles in astrophysical contexts.
RHK
Messages
64
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


The spectroscopic observation of an interstellar gas cloud shows emission lines H (λ=6563 A), Hβ λ=4862 A) e OI (λ=1304 A), each one with a gaussian profile of the kind:

g(\nu)=A e^[-\frac{(\nu-\nu_0)^2}{2\sigma^2}]

Per Hα si osserva σ_{Hα} = 1.2 \times 10^{10} Hz.
Supposing that gas is in thermodynamic equilibrium at a temperature T, uniform in the whole cloud, determine:

1) the T value;
2) the σ_{OI} value;
3) the Full Width at Half Maximum of the Hβ line.


Homework Equations



The Doppler broadening Δ\nu/\nu = v/c.
The Virial temperature: 1/2 m v^2 = 3/2 k T.

The Attempt at a Solution



Regarding only the first point, can I proceed with the above-mentioned formulas?
If yes, I find a temperature of T≈2500 K, that is an order of magnitude higher then the typical temperature of interstellar clouds...
If not (and this is), why not?

Thanks in advance :)

PS: I don't like this formulas editor et all :D
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Any ideas please?
 
Thread 'Help with Time-Independent Perturbation Theory "Good" States Proof'
(Disclaimer: this is not a HW question. I am self-studying, and this felt like the type of question I've seen in this forum. If there is somewhere better for me to share this doubt, please let me know and I'll transfer it right away.) I am currently reviewing Chapter 7 of Introduction to QM by Griffiths. I have been stuck for an hour or so trying to understand the last paragraph of this proof (pls check the attached file). It claims that we can express Ψ_{γ}(0) as a linear combination of...
Back
Top