Spectroscopy: What Do He II & O III Lines Mean?

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In summary, spectroscopy is the study of the interaction between matter and electromagnetic radiation. It involves analyzing the spectrum of light emitted, absorbed, or scattered by a substance to gather information about its composition, structure, and physical properties. The He II and O III lines refer to specific wavelengths of light that are emitted or absorbed by the elements helium and oxygen, respectively. These lines are useful in spectroscopy because they have distinct wavelengths that can be easily identified and measured, providing information about a substance's chemical composition, temperature, density, and physical processes. Spectroscopy with He II and O III lines is a valuable tool in various fields of scientific research, allowing for the identification and study of substances and their properties, and providing insight into fundamental processes
  • #1
Piano man
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Hi everyone,

I think this is a relatively straightforward question, but I can't find a simple answer for it on Google.
What do the Roman numerals stand for in He II and O III in relation to spectroscopy?

Thanks.
 
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  • #2
He I is neutral, He II is once ionized, etc. A clunky notation, to be sure-- kind of like how 2011 is the "21st century."
 
  • #3
Thanks, that rings a bell alright - had a feeling it was something along those lines (no pun intended...) Cheers :D
 

1. What is spectroscopy?

Spectroscopy is the study of the interaction between matter and electromagnetic radiation. It involves analyzing the spectrum of light emitted, absorbed, or scattered by a substance to gather information about its composition, structure, and physical properties.

2. What are He II and O III lines in spectroscopy?

The He II and O III lines refer to specific wavelengths of light that are emitted or absorbed by the elements helium and oxygen, respectively. These lines are used in spectroscopy to identify and study these elements in various substances.

3. How are He II and O III lines useful in spectroscopy?

He II and O III lines are useful in spectroscopy because they have distinct wavelengths that can be easily identified and measured. This allows scientists to determine the presence and concentration of helium and oxygen in a substance, as well as other properties such as temperature and density.

4. What do He II and O III lines tell us about a substance?

The presence and intensity of He II and O III lines in a substance can provide information about its chemical composition, temperature, and density. They can also reveal the physical conditions and processes that are occurring in the substance, such as ionization and recombination.

5. How does spectroscopy with He II and O III lines contribute to scientific research?

Spectroscopy using He II and O III lines is a valuable tool in various fields of scientific research, including astronomy, chemistry, and materials science. It allows scientists to identify and study the composition and properties of substances, providing insight into the fundamental processes and mechanisms at work in the universe.

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