Spatially-resolved spectroscopic measurements on the regions of an argon DC glow discharge

Optical emission spectroscopy was performed on the cathode region and positive column of a low pressure argon DC glow discharge. The intensities of selected Ar I and Ar II lines were measured. Relative line intensities at the cathode glow, negative glow and positive column agreed with the known excitation mechanisms in the respective regions. Spatial distribution of electron temperature, Te, was also calculated from line intensity ratios using the steady-state corona approximation. Mean Te values of 1.48 eV to 2.02 eV and 1.68 eV to 1.74 eV were found in the cathode and anode regions, respectively.