Gaussian emission lines

In summary, the conversation discusses the spectroscopic observation of an interstellar gas cloud, with emission lines for H, Hβ, and OI. The Gaussian profile of the lines is described by the formula g(\nu)=A e^[-\frac{(\nu-\nu_0)^2}{2\sigma^2}]. The values of σ_{Hα}, σ_{OI}, and the Full Width at Half Maximum of the Hβ line are needed to determine the temperature of the gas, assuming it is in thermodynamic equilibrium and uniform throughout the cloud. The formulas used for this calculation are the Doppler broadening Δ\nu/\nu = v/c and the Virial temperature 1/2 m v^2 =
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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:

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

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

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


Homework Equations



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

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
 
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Any ideas please?
 

1. What are Gaussian emission lines?

Gaussian emission lines are spectral lines that are produced by the emission of photons at specific wavelengths, resulting in a characteristic bell-shaped curve when plotted on a graph. They are commonly observed in astronomical objects, such as stars and galaxies, and are often used to study the composition and physical properties of these objects.

2. How are Gaussian emission lines formed?

Gaussian emission lines are formed when electrons in an atom or molecule absorb energy and become excited, causing them to jump to a higher energy level. When these electrons return to their original energy level, they release this excess energy in the form of light at specific wavelengths, creating the characteristic bell-shaped curve of a Gaussian emission line.

3. What information can be obtained from Gaussian emission lines?

Gaussian emission lines can provide valuable information about the composition, temperature, and density of the emitting object. By analyzing the intensity and shape of the emission lines, scientists can determine the types of elements present, the temperature of the gas, and the density of the emitting region.

4. How are Gaussian emission lines used in astronomy?

In astronomy, Gaussian emission lines are used to study the properties of celestial objects, such as stars, galaxies, and nebulae. By analyzing the emission lines, astronomers can determine the chemical composition of these objects, as well as their physical conditions and evolutionary history.

5. Can Gaussian emission lines be used to study objects outside of our galaxy?

Yes, Gaussian emission lines can be used to study objects outside of our galaxy, such as other galaxies and quasars. By analyzing the emission lines of these objects, astronomers can gather information about their chemical composition and physical properties, providing insights into the formation and evolution of the universe.

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