Stark broadening of visible Ar I spectral lines

Abstract

Stark broadening parameters (width and shift) of six Ar I spectral lines: 522.1, 549.6, 518.6, 560.7, 603.2 and 696.5 nm, corresponding to the transitions 3p5nd →3p5 4p for n=7–5 and 4p′→4s have been calculated on the basis of the impact theory within the semi-classical perturbation approach. The case of the quasistatic ions has also been examined. The conditions of use of the presented results have been discussed. The considered lines are in the optical part of the spectrum and are of interest for laboratory research, particularly surface wave sustained discharges, and astrophysical purposes. The obtained results are compared with published experimental results and values calculated by other authors. The influence of the used coupling (j{\ ext-}L or LS) and oscillator strengths (The Opacity Project (TOP) database or Coulomb approximation) has also been considered.