Emission/Absorption Spectra

Front

What is an emission spectrum?

Back

An emission spectrum is a spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by a source, showing the wavelengths of light emitted by atoms or molecules when they transition from a higher energy state to a lower energy state.

Front

What is an absorption spectrum?

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An absorption spectrum is a spectrum that shows the wavelengths of light absorbed by a substance, indicating the specific energies that correspond to the transitions of electrons in atoms or molecules.

Front

How can emission spectra be used to identify elements?

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Each element emits light at characteristic wavelengths when excited, creating a unique emission spectrum that can be used to identify the element.

Front

What is the relationship between energy levels and spectral lines?

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Spectral lines correspond to the differences in energy levels of electrons in an atom; transitions between these levels result in the emission or absorption of light at specific wavelengths.

Front

What is the significance of the Balmer series?

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The Balmer series is a set of spectral lines corresponding to transitions of electrons in hydrogen from higher energy levels to the second energy level, visible in the visible spectrum.

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What role does temperature play in emission spectra?

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Temperature affects the intensity and distribution of emission spectra; higher temperatures can excite more electrons, leading to more intense and varied spectral lines.

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What is the difference between continuous and line spectra?

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Continuous spectra show a full range of wavelengths without gaps, while line spectra consist of discrete lines at specific wavelengths, indicating the presence of particular elements.

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What is the principle of spectroscopy?

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Spectroscopy is the study of the interaction between light and matter, used to analyze the composition and properties of substances based on their emission or absorption spectra.

Front

How do you determine the unknown element from a spectrum?

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By comparing the observed spectral lines with known spectra of elements, you can identify the unknown element based on matching wavelengths.

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What is the role of a spectroscope?

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A spectroscope is an instrument used to observe and analyze the spectrum of light emitted or absorbed by substances, allowing for the identification of elements.