The emission spectrum from atoms and molecules

Question

a. Occurs only in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum

b. Is a discrete spectrum that is unique to each atom or molecule

c. Is a continuous spectrum

d. Is a descrete spectrum that is the same for all atoms and molecules

I think the answer is c., since I think a spectrum is usually continuous, and I don't think it would differ for atoms and molecules.

Answer 1

Hi, Abigail,

I understand your logic, but atoms and molecules exhibit distinctive emission lines that allow them to be identified. The emission spectra of metals and noble gases are particularly interesting. The unique emissions are what give fireworks and neon/argon/xenon/etc. lamps their characteristic glows and colors.

See: https://www.google.com/search?q=emission+spectrum&lr=&hl=en&as_qdr=all&sxsrf=ALeKk017_Tv1EXPyDnjmJpTKMUesjygweA:1603538480035&tbm=isch&source=iu&ictx=1&fir=un5UA-tjeqV-uM%252CHkP41QYPcvKTaM%252C_&vet=1&usg=AI4_-kRRjZtp_pBt4Zg8aTVs533Nx33sCg&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjmr_Grjs3sAhVpUd8KHV1SDqkQ_h16BAgCEAU#imgrc=fCHpfI3HxNPdSM

The emissions can occur outside the visible spectrum, which then leaves us (c) as the most likely answer.

I hope this helps,

Bob