Optogalvanic Spectroscopy in a Microwave-Induced Active Nitrogen Plasma

Abstract

Optogalvanic spectra have been obtained for a microwave-induced active nitrogen plasma. The spectra originated from laser-excited transitions belonging to the second positive system of nitrogen. As the ultraviolet (UV) laser wavelength was scanned through the regions of interest, the laser-induced ionization signal was monitored. A laboratory-constructed etalon system of very low finesse was used to provide an interferometric wavelength reference. Calibration of the laser wavelength allowed the accurate identification of a series of selected nitrogen transitions.