Abstract

A theoretical analysis of the behavior of 400-watt Hg + TlI arc lamps with variable mercury loadings is performed. It is quantitatively shown that, as the Hg loading is doubled, the following effects may be predicted: (a) the effective arc temperature decreases from 5100 K to 4800 K, (b) the effective radius increases by ~10%, (c) the escape factor for the imprisoned Tl 5350 Å line increases ~40%, (d) the power radiated in the Tl 5350 Å line increases ~10%, and (e) the power radiated in the Hg visible line decreases ~15%. These results are in agreement with the experimental observations of Larson. These effects result in an increase in the lumen-per-watt ratings, which is of technological significance. Self-absorption is an important factor in the radiation of the Tl 5350 Å line, and it is shown that the experimental observations are reasonably consistent with the assumption of local thermodynamic equilibrium.

© 1970 Optical Society of America

On the Question of Equilibrium in Mercury + Thallium Iodide Arc Discharges

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