The transition from diffuse to dense clouds

Abstract

Studies of the relatively diffuse interstellar clouds where variations in the properties of the diffuse interstellar bands occur are reviewed, and the possible relationship between dust properties, as indicated by UV extinction, and other cloud characteristics is explored, with emphasis placed on relatively dense diffuse clouds. Some results from the literature on transitional or intermediate clouds are reviewed, and some recent findings are presented on one particular cloud, in front of the star BD+31 deg 643, in the small open cluster IC348, which is part of the Perseus II complex of dark clouds and OB associations. Tentative speculations about the possible status of the transitional clouds are discussed.