An Attempt to Observe the Absorption Spectrum of Metastable Nitrogen Molecules

Abstract

Previous failures to observe the absorption spectrum of metastable ${\mathrm{N}}_2$ might be explained on the basis of more recent information by the position of the spectrum in an infrared range in which plates are less sensitive and, therefore, the application of high resolving power is difficult. Since at this laboratory a special equipment for the investigation of very faint absorption spectra had been developed for another purpose the problem mentioned was reinvestigated under most favorable conditions with the newly developed plates, types $Q$ and $Z$, of the Eastman Kodak Company. Again no absorption spectrum was observed.