Identification of the 1400 and 1600 A features observed in the ultraviolet spectra of DA white dwarfs

The 600 A absorption feature in the spectra of cool DA white dwarf stars has been identified as a resonance broadening of Ly-alpha due to the hydrogen quasi molecule. Likewise, the 1400 A absorption feature in the spectra of cool and moderately warm DA white dwarf stars appears to be due to a Ly-alpha satellite line arising from the hydrogen ion quasi molecule. The strength of both features is gravity sensitive and therefore promises to be an excellent indicator of surface gravity.