Polarization in Spectral Lines

The scientific research based on spectropolarimetric techniques is undergoing a phase of rapid growth. Instruments of unprecedented sensitivity are nowadays available, particularly for solar observations. To fully exploit the rich diagnostic content of such observations, it is necessary to understand the physical mechanisms involved in the generation and transfer of polarized radiation in astrophysical (or laboratory) plasmas. After an introductory part based on classical physics, this book tackles the subject by a rigorous quantum-mechanical approach. The transfer equations for polarized radiation and the statistical equilibrium equations for the atomic density matrix are derived directly from the principles of Quantum Electrodynamics. The two sets of equations are then used to present a number of applications, mainly concerning the diagnostics of solar magnetic fields. This book is primarily addressed to scientists working in the field of spectropolarimetry. It may also serve as a textbook for a course at the graduate or advanced undergraduate level.

Inhalt

Description of Polarized Radiation.- Angular Momentum and Racah Algebra.- Atomic Spectroscopy.- Quantization of the Electromagnetic Field (Non-Relativistic Theory).- Interaction of Material Systems with Polarized Radiation (the Classical Approach).- Interaction of Material Systems with Polarized Radiation (the Quantum Approach).- Statistical Equilibrium Equations and Radiative Transfer Coefficients for Atomic Systems.- Radiative Transfer for Polarized Radiation.- Line Formation in a Magnetic Field.- Non-Equilibrium Atomic Physics.- Astrophysical Applications: Solar Magnetometry.- Astrophysical Applications: Radiation Anisotropy in Stellar Atmospheres.- Astrophysical Applications: the Outer Layers of Stellar Atmospheres.- Astrophysical Applications: Stellar Atmospheres.