Formation of a spectral line contour with asymmetric self-reversal

Abstract

Features characteristic of the formation of spectral line contours with asymmetric self-reversal are investigated. Four parameters are used to describe the complex asymmetric contour; it is shown that these parameters are related to the optical thickness and inhomogeneity of the radiating layer, to Voigt's parameter, and also to the shifts and half-widths of emission and absorption lines. New effects characteristic of the first stage of self-reversal are predicted.