Emission Spectrum Flashcards
Why only specific wavelengths of light are absorbed or emitted by atoms when electrons move between energy levels.?
Electrons can only exist in specific energy levels. The energy difference between these levels corresponds to specific wavelengths of light.
This results in discrete wavelengths when electrons absorb or release energy the light absorbed or emitted matches this exact energy difference.
Why do different atoms produce unique spectral lines?
Different atoms have unique arrangements of electrons and energy levels, leading to varying gaps between energy levels.
This results in unique energy (and corresponding wavelength) of light absorbed or emitted which is unique to each atom.
A scientist observes a spectrum with distinct dark lines in specific positions. Explain how this type of spectrum forms and what information it provides.
This is an absorption spectrum. It forms when light passes through a gas or material, and the electrons in the atoms absorb specific wavelengths corresponding to their energy level transitions. The dark lines indicate the wavelengths of light absorbed, which can be used to identify the composition of the gas or material.
How can emission spectra be used to identify elements in a star?
By comparing observed emission lines with known spectral patterns of elements, the star’s composition can be determined.
Each element emits light at characteristic wavelengths due to its unique energy levels.
Why might light emitted by an electron falling from a higher energy level be in the ultraviolet range for some elements?
The wavelength of emitted light depends on the energy difference between the higher energy level and the ground state.
A large energy gap results in ultraviolet light, while smaller gaps result in visible light.
What do the spectral series of hydrogen correspond to?
Each series corresponds to electrons falling to specific energy levels, emitting light in different parts of the electromagnetic spectrum.
For instance, the Lyman series emits ultraviolet light, while the Balmer series emits visible light.
Why might light emitted during an electron’s transition appear as a single color?
It appears as a single color because it is dominated by a specific wavelength corresponding to the energy transition.
A prism can separate it into multiple wavelengths, revealing discrete lines of the emission spectrum.
