Spectral lines are like a _ of absorbed or emission energy in a spectrum

Correct answer: B. Fingerprint pattern

  • A. Charged pattern
  • B. Fingerprint pattern
  • C. Discharged pattern
  • D. None of these

Explanation

Fingerprints are patterns specific to each person, therefore they can be used to identify individuals. Similarly, spectral lines act as fingerprints that allow us to identify and distinguish the matter within galaxies and heavenly bodies. By studying the light emitted from certain celestial bodies, spectral lines tell us about the presence of certain atoms and elements present within that body.

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About Atomic Spectra

Atoms emit or absorb light at specific wavelengths because electrons occupy quantized energy levels and change levels by absorbing or releasing photons. The topic covers emission and absorption spectra, spectral series, hydrogen’s line spectrum, energy-level transitions, and the relation between wavelength, frequency and photon energy.

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