Question

experience 3 review questions

1. what happens to electrons in an atom when the element absorbs energy in its gaseous state?
2. define an atomic emission spectrum.
3. how does the atomic emission spectrum of hydrogen differ from the continuous spectrum of white light?

Explanation:

1. Electrons absorb energy to move to higher energy levels (excitation).
2. An atomic emission spectrum is light emitted by excited atoms as electrons return to lower energy levels, appearing as discrete lines.
3. Hydrogen's atomic emission spectrum has discrete colored lines (specific wavelengths), while white light's continuous spectrum shows all colors blended without breaks.

Answer:

1. They move from lower to higher energy levels (become excited).
2. The set of discrete wavelengths of light emitted by excited atoms as electrons transition to lower energy levels.
3. Hydrogen's spectrum has discrete lines; white light's spectrum is continuous (all wavelengths blended).