Abstract

The wavelength region between 265 and 315 nm is characterized by negligible optical absorption of the major atmospheric gases. Only ozone and sulfur dioxide show strong absorption in this wavelength range. Whereas the Hartley band of ozone which peaks at 255 nm is dominated by a broad hump with little structure resolved under atmospheric conditions, the SO₂ spectrum with its maximum around 285 nm shows well-separated peaks 1 to 2 nm apart with cross-section ratios > 5 between some peaks and adjacent valleys.

© 1990 Optical Society of America