Quick Question regarding Atomic spectra

In summary, an emission spectrum is produced when an electron goes from the third to the second level. This can also be seen in the absorption spectrum, as starlight passing through cool hydrogen gas will have dark lines corresponding to the emission spectrum of hydrogen. This is because the photons that correspond to the difference in energy levels will be absorbed, while others will not. The mechanism behind this is complex and requires an understanding of quantum mechanics.
  • #1
convict11
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An emission spectrum can contain wavelengths produced when an electron goes from the third to the second leve. So could you see this like in the absorption spectrum? Why?
 
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  • #2
convict11 said:
An emission spectrum can contain wavelengths produced when an electron goes from the third to the second leve. So could you see this like in the absorption spectrum? Why?
Yes. If starlight passes through realtively cool hydrogen gas, the light that makes it through will have dark lines corresponding to the emission spectrum for hydrogen. The reason is that the photons that correspond to the difference in energy levels of the hydrogen atom will be absorbed (to bump the electrons up to the higher level) whereas others will not be absorbed. The actual mechanism that causes this to occur requires an understanding of quantum mechanics and is not simple.

AM
 
  • #3


Yes, you can see this transition in the absorption spectrum as well. In an absorption spectrum, the wavelengths that are absorbed by the atom correspond to the energy needed for an electron to move from a lower energy level to a higher energy level. In this case, the electron would be moving from the second to the third level, resulting in the same wavelengths being observed as in the emission spectrum. This is because the energy difference between the levels remains the same regardless of the direction of the electron's transition.
 

FAQ: Quick Question regarding Atomic spectra

What is atomic spectra?

Atomic spectra refers to the unique pattern of light emitted or absorbed by an atom when its electrons move from one energy level to another. These patterns are like fingerprints and can be used to identify and study different elements.

What causes atomic spectra?

The movement of electrons between energy levels in an atom causes atomic spectra. When an electron absorbs energy, it moves to a higher energy level. When it falls back to its original energy level, it releases that energy in the form of light, which is observed as atomic spectra.

How is atomic spectra used in scientific research?

Atomic spectra is used to identify and study elements, as each element has a unique spectral pattern. It is also used in various analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, which can determine the composition and structure of a substance. Atomic spectra is also important in fields such as astrophysics, where it is used to identify elements in stars and galaxies.

How is atomic spectra related to quantum mechanics?

Atomic spectra is related to quantum mechanics as it involves the behavior of electrons in an atom, which is governed by the principles of quantum mechanics. The energy levels of electrons in an atom are quantized, meaning they can only exist at specific discrete energy levels. The movement of electrons between these levels is what causes atomic spectra.

Can atomic spectra change?

Yes, atomic spectra can change depending on the conditions of the atom, such as temperature and pressure. These changes can cause shifts in the energy levels of electrons, resulting in a different spectral pattern. Atomic spectra can also change due to interactions with other atoms or molecules, such as in chemical reactions.

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