title: Balmer-beta line asymmetry characteristics in a high pressure, microwave-produced argon plasma.
abstract: This paper presents a study on the asymmetry of the Balmer H(beta) profile in plasmas produced by microwaves at high pressure with the help of some functions of asymmetry for the whole profile, as well as by means of some specific parameters characterizing only its central dip. The study shows how this asymmetry--very low in our case--depends on the electron density and flux of gases and how the existence of inhomogeneities in the plasma can affect the shape and symmetry of this line. Also, limitations on the determination of the asymmetry are pointed out and the use of this profile for plasma diagnosis is discussed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physics, University of Cordoba, Campus Universitario de Rabanales, E-14071 Córdoba, Spain.
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Palomares
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Torres
authors.forename: M A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Gigosos
authors.forename: J J A M
authors.initials: JJ
authors.lastname: van der Mullen
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Gamero
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Sola