How to Determine Temperature and Line Widths in Spectroscopic Observations?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the temperature and line widths of emission lines from an interstellar gas cloud using spectroscopic observations. The emission lines analyzed include Hα (λ=6563 Å), Hβ (λ=4862 Å), and OI (λ=1304 Å), with a Gaussian profile represented by the equation g(ν)=A e^[-(ν-ν₀)²/(2σ²)]. The calculated temperature is approximately T=2500 K, which is significantly higher than typical interstellar cloud temperatures. The discussion also mentions the need to calculate σ_{OI} and the Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM) of the Hβ line.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Gaussian profiles in spectroscopy
  • Knowledge of Doppler broadening and its relation to temperature
  • Familiarity with the Virial theorem and its application in astrophysics
  • Basic proficiency in using spectroscopic equations and calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of the Doppler broadening formula in astrophysical contexts
  • Research methods for calculating Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM) in spectral lines
  • Explore the implications of temperature variations in interstellar gas clouds
  • Learn about the significance of emission lines in determining physical conditions in astrophysics
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Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students studying spectroscopy and interstellar medium properties will benefit from this discussion.

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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:

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
 
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Any ideas please?
 

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