The Absorption Spectrum of Carbon Dioxide from 14 to 16 Microns

Abstract

Absorption of a parallel beam of radiation from 14 to 16 microns by equivalent thicknesses of 0.004, 0.05, 1, 4, and 20 centimeters of carbon dioxide is calculated on the basis of quantum mechanics considerations for stratospheric conditions. The intensity values for the vibrationrotational lines in the P and R branches of the important vibrational transitions are computed and a method is suggested for correcting the absorption values when more accurate measurements of the matrix element of the electric dipole moments of transition are made. An empirical formula suggested by Sutherland and Callendar is found to give an inaccurate representation of the dependence of absorption on path length for conditions prevailing in the lower stratosphere.