Laser Diagnostic Density Measurements of Hg ( 63 P 0 , 1 , 2 )  in a Low Pressure Hg‐Ar Discharge

Abstract

Two laser techniques are used to derive absolute densities and radial density distributions for the three 63Pj excited states of mercury in the positive column of a low pressure Hg-Ar dc discharge. Radial density distributions are obtained using a saturated laser absorption technique, while absolute densities are measured using the hook method (an interferometric technique). Results are shown and discussed for a variety of discharge currents and pressures.