Polarization in Spectral Lines
Polarization in Spectral Lines

Author: M. Landi Degl'Innocenti

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2006-05-17

Total Pages: 899

ISBN-13: 1402024150

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The scientific research based on spectropolarimetric techniques is undergoing a phase of rapid growth. Instruments of unprecedented sensitivity are nowadays available, particularly for solar observations. To fully exploit the rich diagnostic content of such observations, it is necessary to understand the physical mechanisms involved in the generation and transfer of polarized radiation in astrophysical (or laboratory) plasmas. After an introductory part based on classical physics, this book tackles the subject by a rigorous quantum-mechanical approach. The transfer equations for polarized radiation and the statistical equilibrium equations for the atomic density matrix are derived directly from the principles of Quantum Electrodynamics. The two sets of equations are then used to present a number of applications, mainly concerning the diagnostics of solar magnetic fields. This book is primarily addressed to scientists working in the field of spectropolarimetry. It may also serve as a textbook for a course at the graduate or advanced undergraduate level.

The Transfer of Spectral Line Radiation
The Transfer of Spectral Line Radiation

Author: C. J. Cannon

Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Published: 2012-01-26

Total Pages: 557

ISBN-13: 0521106028

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Originally published in 1985, this monograph describes the interaction of radiation with plasma. Using an approach that is particularly relevant to the interpretation of data from laboratory plasmas or stellar atmospheres, the author sets out the physics and mathematics of the interaction of photons with atoms, molecules, ions and electrons. The emphasis throughout is on relating the formal mathematics to the real world of observable properties and interpretation. The equation of radiative transfer for a two-level atom is solved exactly by two distinct methods. Techniques for solving more realistic problems are then presented. This leads to the main thrust of the book which gives a detailed analysis of the matter - radiation interaction.

Spectral Line Formation
Spectral Line Formation

Author: John T. Jefferies

Publisher:

Published: 1968

Total Pages: 328

ISBN-13:

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The purpose of this book is to discuss certain aspects of the theory of the formation and analysis of the line spectrum of a hot gas. The underlying motivation for most of the studies discussed here lies in a desire to develop a physically sound procedure for interpreting the line spectrum of a stellar atmosphere ; correspondingly, the major emphasis is given to problems encountered in astrophysics.

Progress in Stellar Spectral Line Formation Theory
Progress in Stellar Spectral Line Formation Theory

Author: J.E. Beckman

Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media

Published: 2012-12-06

Total Pages: 452

ISBN-13: 9400953720

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Spectral line formation theory is at the heart of astrophysical diagnostic. Our knowledge of abundances, in both stellar and interstellar contexts, comes almost enti rely from line analysis, as does a major fraction of our ability to model stellar atmospheres. As new facets of the universe become observable so the techniques of high reso lution spectroscopy are brought to bear, with great reward. Improved instruments, such as echelle spectrographs, employ ing detectors of high quantum efficiency, have revolutioned our ability to observe high quality line profiles, although until now this ability has been confined to the brightest stars. Fabry-Perot interferometers and their modern deriva tives are bringing new ranges of resolving power to studies of atomic and ionic interstellar lines, and of course radio techniques imply exceedingly high resolution for the cool interstellar medium of molecules and radicals. Telescopes in space are extending the spectral range of these types of observations. Already the Copernicus and IUE high resolution spectrographs have given us a tantalizing glimmer of what it will be like to obtain ultraviolet spectra with resolution and signal to noise ratio approaching those obtainable on the ground. Fairly soon Space Telescope will be producing high resolution spectroscopic data of unparal leled quali ty and distance range. As often happens in astro physics the challenge is now coming from the observers to the theorists to provide interpretational tools which are adequate to the state of the data.

Radiative Processes in Astrophysics
Radiative Processes in Astrophysics

Author: George B. Rybicki

Publisher: John Wiley & Sons

Published: 2008-09-26

Total Pages: 402

ISBN-13: 352761818X

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Radiative Processes in Astrophysics: This clear, straightforward, and fundamental introduction is designed to present-from a physicist's point of view-radiation processes and their applications to astrophysical phenomena and space science. It covers such topics as radiative transfer theory, relativistic covariance and kinematics, bremsstrahlung radiation, synchrotron radiation, Compton scattering, some plasma effects, and radiative transitions in atoms. Discussion begins with first principles, physically motivating and deriving all results rather than merely presenting finished formulae. However, a reasonably good physics background (introductory quantum mechanics, intermediate electromagnetic theory, special relativity, and some statistical mechanics) is required. Much of this prerequisite material is provided by brief reviews, making the book a self-contained reference for workers in the field as well as the ideal text for senior or first-year graduate students of astronomy, astrophysics, and related physics courses. Radiative Processes in Astrophysics also contains about 75 problems, with solutions, illustrating applications of the material and methods for calculating results. This important and integral section emphasizes physical intuition by presenting important results that are used throughout the main text; it is here that most of the practical astrophysical applications become apparent.