Download Atomic Spectra

Atomic Spectra
Much of what we know about atomic structure comes
from analysis of light either being emitted or absorbed
by substances.
Elements can
emit certain
wavelengths
(λ) when
excited
Most sources of radiant energy (ex. light bulbs)
produce many different wavelengths of light
(continuous spectrum).
Elements produce certain colors when excited (via
electrical discharge or heat).
H
Ne
When separated by a prism, the light produced by each
element produces a specific spectrum of light (atomic
spectrum).
Spectral lines can determine the chemical composition of
various materials or objects (ex. stars).
Spectral lines can also tell us about star movement!!!
Moving away
from equipment
Moving towards
equipment
What does the atomic spectrum of an element tell us?
n=3
Electrons (e-) are
either emitting or
n=2
absorbing energy
by changing energy n = 1
states.
n = principal quantum #
#=
Energy
-
-
Electron
Energy level concept based on
the Bohr Model of the atom.
- e- are found in
orbits of certain radii.
- e- in a particular orbit has a
specific energy and does not
radiate energy while in orbit.
Proton
Neutron
- Energy is emitted or absorbed when an e- changes
from one energy level to another.
Types of electromagnetic (EM) radiation observed when
e- change energy levels.