Theoretical models of planetary nebulae

Introduction of the O⁺⁺+H⁰O⁺+H⁺ charge exchange rate suggested by Butler, Bender and Dalgarno leads to theoretical nebular models that differ from those previously computed in several important respects. Different elemental abundances, bluer central star energy distributions, and truncated (material limited) models are required. If the argon abundance is fixed from the 7135 [Ariii] line intensity, 4740 [Ariv] is invariably predicted to be much too strong. Better atomic parameters, together with improved charge exchange rates for other ions, and more accurate dielectronic recombination rates may alleviate the situation.