The absorption and dissociative or ionizing effect of monochromatic radiation in an atmosphere on a rotating earth

The absorption of monochromatic radiation from the sun in an atmosphere of which the density varies exponentially with height is considered; the energy of the radiation, or a definite fraction of it, is supposed to dissociate or ionize the air, and the dissociation products are supposed to recombine with one another only, and not to diffuse away from the element in which they were formed. The resulting distribution of density of the dissociation products is determined, a constant recombination coefficient being assumed, while account is taken of the variation in rate of dissociation due to the earth's rotation. The results are illustrated by numerous diagrams, showing the density of the dissociation-products as a function of height, time, latitude and season.