What's the difference between emission and absorption?

In summary, absorption and emission are two processes that result in the production of color. Absorption occurs when an object absorbs all wavelengths except one, which is reflected to produce color. Emission, on the other hand, is seen in fluorescent objects such as black-light posters, where the original light is at a high frequency and is not visible, but the resulting fluorescence is visible at easily detectable wavelengths. This concept is relevant to Bohr's model, which is discussed in the chapter being referenced.
  • #1
MCATPhys
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My textbook says "absorption yields color. emission yields fluorescence" - can someone explain what that means exactly.

I know color is when something absorbs all wavelengths except one, which gets reflected and produces color.

If it helps... the chapter is on bohr's model.
 
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  • #2
Sounds like you've got a good handle on absorption already.

For emission, think about how black-light posters work (or anything with fluorescent paint put under a black-light). The original light is at such a high frequency (small wavelength) that one can't see it (or just barely see it), and for practical purposes you can consider it to be a single wavelength. Yet the bright paint is easily visible, at easily visible wavelengths. So there has to be something more than absorption going on. :wink:
 

What is the definition of emission?

Emission refers to the release of electromagnetic radiation or particles from a source. This can occur naturally, such as with the emission of light from the sun, or artificially, such as with the emission of radiation from a nuclear reactor.

What is the definition of absorption?

Absorption refers to the process of absorbing or taking in electromagnetic radiation or particles. This can occur when a substance or material absorbs and retains energy from radiation, such as when a black object absorbs light and converts it into heat.

How are emission and absorption related?

Emission and absorption are two opposite processes that are closely related. When a substance emits radiation, it is releasing energy, while absorption involves the absorption of energy. This means that substances that are good at emitting radiation are also good at absorbing it, and vice versa.

What is the main difference between emission and absorption?

The main difference between emission and absorption is the direction of energy flow. Emission involves the release of energy, while absorption involves the absorption of energy. Additionally, emission can occur spontaneously, while absorption requires an external source of energy.

How is the study of emission and absorption important in science?

The study of emission and absorption is crucial in various scientific fields, including physics, chemistry, and astronomy. It helps us understand the behavior of matter and energy, and how they interact with each other. This knowledge is essential for developing technologies, such as lasers and solar panels, and for studying the universe and its origins.

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