Why can emission spectra be used to identify elements?
a. Each element cannot be matched to an emission spectra
b. The emission spectra can be matched to a fission reaction
c. Each element can only emit or absorb a specific wavelength of light, acting as an identifier
d. Every element has a series of energy levels that the electrons can rise to based on the electricity that runs through them
c. Each element can only emit or absorb a specific wavelength of light, acting as an identifier.
c. Each element can only emit or absorb a specific wavelength of light, acting as an identifier.
The correct answer is c. Each element can only emit or absorb a specific wavelength of light, acting as an identifier.
Emission spectra can be used to identify elements because each element has a unique set of energy levels that its electrons can occupy. When an electron in an atom absorbs energy, it jumps to a higher energy level. However, it is unstable in this higher energy state and will eventually return to its original energy level. When it does, it releases the absorbed energy in the form of light.
This released light forms a pattern of distinct wavelengths, known as an emission spectrum, which is unique to each element. By studying the pattern of wavelengths emitted by a sample, scientists can compare it to known emission spectra for each element and identify the specific element present in the sample. So, emission spectra provide a way to identify elements based on their unique patterns of light emission.