Dual nature of electron spectrum

In summary, the cause of spectra is the transition of an electron from one state to another. This can lead to both emission and absorption spectra. In the case of hydrogen atoms, the 1s -> 3p transition can be directly excited, but only about 88% of the excited states will go back to the 1s state through a 3p -> 1s transition. The remaining 12% will go back down through the 2s state. Additionally, some gases can absorb their own emission lines, resulting in absorption notches in the emission spectrum. This can be seen with a good diffraction grating.
  • #1
astro2cosmos
71
0
cause of spectra is transition of electron form one state to another state.
but which one? emission spectra or absorption spectra.
or in what case both spectra can be seen?
 
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  • #2
You can directly excite the 1s -> 3p transition absorption line in a hydrogen atom, but only about 88% of the excited states will go back to the 1s directly by a 3p -> 1s transition.. The other 12% will go back down via the 2s state. Is this your question?
Bob S
 
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  • #3
Bob S said:
You can directly excite the 1s -> 3p transition absorption line in a hydrogen atom, but only about 88% of the excited states will go back to the 1s directly by a 3p -> 1s transition.. The other 12% will go back down via the 2s state. Is this your question?
Bob S

is this transition emit both emission & absorption spectra?
 
  • #4
astro2cosmos said:
is this transition emit both emission & absorption spectra?
Some gases can absorb their own emission lines. The strong yellow sodium D lines at 5890 Angstroms (two lines separated by about 5 Angstroms) in sodium arc lamps have absorption notches in the center of each broad line, because the cooler gas surrounding the arc is absorbing the emission from the hot arc. This can be seen with a good diffraction grating. [Actually, the emission line width is due in part to collisional broadening.]
Bob S
 

FAQ: Dual nature of electron spectrum

What is the dual nature of electron spectrum?

The dual nature of electron spectrum refers to the fact that electrons exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties. This means that they can behave as both a wave and a particle, depending on the experimental context.

How was the dual nature of electron spectrum discovered?

The dual nature of electron spectrum was first discovered through the famous double-slit experiment performed by physicist Thomas Young in the early 1800s. This experiment demonstrated the wave-like behavior of electrons as they passed through two slits and created an interference pattern on a screen.

What are the implications of the dual nature of electron spectrum?

The dual nature of electron spectrum has many implications in the field of quantum mechanics. It helps us understand the behavior of subatomic particles and their interactions with electromagnetic fields. It also plays a crucial role in technologies such as electron microscopy and particle accelerators.

Can the dual nature of electron spectrum be observed in everyday life?

Yes, the dual nature of electron spectrum can be observed in certain everyday objects such as computer chips, which use the wave-like behavior of electrons to transmit information. It is also observable in some natural phenomena, such as the diffraction of electrons in crystals.

How does the dual nature of electron spectrum impact our understanding of the physical world?

The dual nature of electron spectrum challenges our traditional understanding of the physical world as being purely made up of particles. It suggests that there is a duality to all matter, and that the behavior of particles cannot always be predicted using classical physics. This has led to the development of quantum mechanics and a deeper understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe.

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