The C2 Ballik-Ramsay transitions in carbon stars

The bands of C2 are an important source of opacity in the near-infrared spectral region of carbon stars. In the 2 micron spectral region, the Delta v = -1 and -2 transitions of the Ballik-Ramsay b 3Sigma(g)(-) - a 3Pi(u) system are especially important. A general method for calculating highly accurate transition parameters of the Ballik-Ramsay band is presented. This method allows the easy calculation of the satellite lines and the forbidden lines resulting from the perturbation of the upper b 3Sigma(g)(-) state by the X 1Sigma(0)(+) state. Included in the calculation is the effect of the isotopic molecules (C-12)2, (C-12)(C-13), and (C-13)2. Three consistency tests of the calculated strengths are presented. A comparison of synthetic spectra is made with an observed spectrum of WZ Cas in the 3940/cm spectral region.