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

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SUMMARY

In spectroscopy, He II refers to singly ionized helium, while O III denotes doubly ionized oxygen. The Roman numerals indicate the ionization state of the elements, with He I representing neutral helium and He II indicating one ionization. This notation is essential for understanding the spectral lines and their implications in astrophysics and plasma physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of atomic structure and ionization
  • Familiarity with spectroscopy terminology
  • Knowledge of astrophysical elements and their states
  • Experience with interpreting spectral lines
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the ionization states of other elements in spectroscopy
  • Learn about the significance of spectral lines in astrophysics
  • Explore the applications of He II and O III lines in nebula studies
  • Study the principles of plasma physics related to ionized gases
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Astronomers, astrophysicists, students of physics, and anyone interested in the analysis of spectral lines in astrophysical research.

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.
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
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."
 
Thanks, that rings a bell alright - had a feeling it was something along those lines (no pun intended...) Cheers :D
 

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