The interaction of matter and radiation in a hot-model universe

In this paper we continue the investigation initiated by Weymann as to the reason why the spectrum of the residual radiation deviates from a Planck curve. We shall consider the distortions of the spectrum resulting from radiation during the recombination of a primeval plasma. Analytical expressions are obtained for the deviation from an equilibrium spectrum due to Compton scattering by hot electrons. On the basis of the observational data it is concluded that a period of neutral hydrogen in the evolution of the universe is unavoidable. It is shown that any injection of energy att>10¹⁰ sec (red shiftz<10⁵) leads to deviation from an equilibrium spectrum.Translated by Peter Foukal.