Context. The peculiar three-peak structure of the linear polarization profile shown in the second solar spectrum by the Ba ii line at 4554 Å has been interpreted as the result of the different contributions coming from the barium isotopes with and without hyperfine structure. In the same spectrum, a triple peak polarization signal is also observed in the Sc ii line at 4247 Å. Scandium has a sin...

We present a simple and inexpensive experimental arrangement for hyperfine structure studies in atoms using commercially available laser diodes and hollow cathode lamps. The experiment is highly suitable for the undergraduate laboratory. This technique can be employed to investigate the hyperfine structure of rare earth and other elements such as Ta and Nb which have large nuclear magnetic and ...