The absorption spectrum of stannous sulphide

Abstract

Absorption spectra ascribed to the diatomic sulphides of the related elements germanium, tin, and lead, have been discovered by Shapiro and his co-workeres (GeS), Butkow and Tschassowenny (SnS), and Rochester and Howell (PbS and SnS). All are similar in general appearance and are characterized by overlapping progressions of bands degraded to the red. In the present work an account is given of the analysis of the spectrum of stannous sulphide. It differs in many respects from the aforementioned analysis proposed by Butkow, the differences being attributable partly to the use of higher temperatures—1200º C instead of 860º C—and partly to the use of greater dispersion (three to five times greater). The use of higher temperatures leads to a considerable extension of the systems already recorded by Butkow and to the discovery of a new one, whilst the greater dispersion employed enables greater reliance to be placed on the analysis proposed.