Why do atoms emit discrete frequencies of light?

[AravindSrivat]

Homework Statement

Why are electronic levels present for an atom? What is the need for differentiating energy levels?

 

[Dadface]

Homework Statement

Why are electronic levels present for an atom? What is the need for differentiating energy levels?

What do you think?

 

[AravindSrivat]

I was taught that energy levels are used for differentiating the position of an electron in an atom. Why is that it needs to be specific levels?

 

[Dadface]

I guess you are asking why different atoms have different discrete energy states and if so the best answer comes from quantum theory.It will help if you study Niels Bohr's analysis of the hydrogen atom.Try googling "Bohr atom".The analysis can be described as being obsolete but it is still widely studied because it introduces the concept of energy levels and it makes a good introduction to the subject.

 

[KOSS]

Hey Aravind, see the replies in the thread,
https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=524617&highlight=discrete+energy"

(which should of course read "Why does an atom emit discrete frequencies of light?")