Observations of the H-beta region in some broad-line objects

Data are presented of the H-beta region in 27 broad-line objects (Seyfert 1 nuclei and QSOs) at a resolution of 5 A or less. A technique is discussed for removing the Fe II emission from the H-beta region and is applied to the data. While most of the 'cleaned' broad-line profiles are symmetric, both blue and redward asymmetries persist in some of the objects. This argues strongly that the 'one way' theoretical solutions for the broad-line asymmetries are limited in their application. There may be some indication that asymmetries are found primarily in lower luminosity objects. Despite the apparent diversity in the broad H-beta profile shapes, excellent correlations are found between the line width ratios at different intensities for the entire sample, suggesting that there may be a similar acceleration mechanism or geometry, or both operating in both the broad and narrow line regions.