Black lines in elements' emission spectra

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the phenomenon of black lines in elements' emission spectra, which occur due to the quantized nature of electron energy levels. When electrons transition between these levels, they emit or absorb specific wavelengths of light, resulting in distinct spectral lines. The black parts in the spectra represent wavelengths where electrons have absorbed energy to move to higher orbitals, indicating that they cannot exist between energy levels. This understanding is crucial for interpreting emission and absorption spectra in chemistry.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals, specifically electron energy levels
  • Understanding of emission and absorption spectra
  • Basic knowledge of spectroscopy techniques
  • Familiarity with the concept of photons and their interaction with matter
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of quantum mechanics related to electron transitions
  • Learn about spectroscopy and how to analyze emission and absorption spectra
  • Explore the concept of energy levels in atoms and how they relate to spectral lines
  • Investigate the role of temperature in the formation of absorption lines in spectra
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of atomic spectra and their applications in scientific analysis.

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My understanding of analyzing emission spectra is that when the quantum number of an electron decreases (i.e. when it falls closer to the nucleus) it emits energy. I understand that this is a very basic understanding but I have not yet made it to college, so please bear with me. :) Now, what I can't figure out is why different elements' emission spectra have black parts in different places, or why the black parts are even there. Does it have something to do with electrons not being able to exist between two energy levels?

Unfortunately, my chemistry teacher and my textbook do not explain things too well, so I can't turn to them for help, especially when we aren't really expected/required to know any more about this than what I already know for the course.

Thank you for your time.
 
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Dark absorption linesare formed in exactly the same way - if you have a continuous spectrum illuminated some colder molecules theelectrosn absorb energy and are promoted to higher orbitals - since this only occurs if they absorb a photon of exactly the right energy you get sharp absorption features in the spectrum.
 

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