Question

Explain how bright-line spectra could possibly be used to identify which atoms are present in an unknown gas sample

Answer 1

Bright-line Specta to identify elements in samples of unknown substances here on Earth, astronomers use it to examine light coming from the sun, planets and other stars. For example, the absorption spectrum from Jupiter reveals the hydrogen, helium and other elements in its atmosphere; Jupiter doesn’t produce visible light of its own, but it reflects light from the sun; atoms in its atmosphere absorb some of the light energy before reflecting it back, leaving telltale signs of the elements within

When an atom absorbs energy, its electrons jump to higher energy levels. Then they jump back down again. Each jump corresponds to a particular wavelength of light.

There are many possible electron transitions for each atom. Each transition has a specific energy difference. This collection of transitions makes up an emission spectrum. These emission spectra are as distinctive to each element as fingerprints are to people.

Thus, scientists can use atomic spectra to identify the elements in them.