Shifting atomic spectrum

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    Atomic Spectrum
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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the ability to shift the absorption spectrum of an atom using electric or magnetic fields, specifically referencing the Zeeman and Stark effects. While it is established that these effects can cause shifts, the magnitude is insufficient to alter the color of an object significantly. Additionally, while static magnetic or electric fields can excite electrons, the required field strength exceeds current capabilities, as demonstrated by the ineffectiveness of NMR and MRI machines in causing chemical excitations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Zeeman and Stark effects
  • Knowledge of atomic absorption spectra
  • Familiarity with electromagnetic fields
  • Basic principles of quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Zeeman effect in detail
  • Explore the Stark effect and its applications
  • Investigate the limitations of NMR and MRI in chemical excitations
  • Study the principles of atomic energy level transitions
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Physicists, chemists, and students studying quantum mechanics or atomic physics, particularly those interested in the effects of electromagnetic fields on atomic spectra.

Relena
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Can the absorption spectrum of an atom be shifted significantly using electric or magnetic fields ?
such that to turn red to blue or something ?

Another question, can atoms be excited to a certain energy level by applying external fields only with calculated energy ?

thanks
 
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Relena said:
Can the absorption spectrum of an atom be shifted significantly using electric or magnetic fields ? such that to turn red to blue or something ?

It can be shifted (See Zeeman, Stark effects). But not enough to change the color of an object, in practice. This would require too strong a field.

Another question, can atoms be excited to a certain energy level by applying external fields only with calculated energy ?

Does a photon count as a field?
Anyway, yes static magnetic or electric field could excite an electron as well, but would require a field much much stronger than anything we have. Consider that some of the strongest fields around are in NMR and MRI machines, and these have no effect on chemistry at all. (which would've been the case if they were causing any excitations.
 

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