Atomic Spectra shi

What is the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and the speed of light?

C= fA (speed of light = frequency × wavelength)

What is the electromagnetic spectrum in order of longest to shortest wavelength?

Radio → Microwaves → Infrared → Visible → UV → X-rays → Gamma rays (Mnemonic: Red Martians Invade Venus Using X-ray Guns)

What is the wavelength range of visible light?

400 nm - 700 nm

What is the dual nature of electromagnetic radiation?

It behaves as both a wave (has wavelength & frequency) and a particle (photons).

What is a photon?

A particle of electromagnetic radiation that carries energy.

What is the energy of a photon formula?

3 E= hf or E=hc

What happens when a photon is absorbed or emitted?

Electrons gain or lose energy by movin

tween energy levels.

What is absorption spectroscopy?

Electromagnetic radiation is absorbed, exciting electrons to higher energy levels.

What does an absorption spectrum look like?

Dark lines at specific wavelengths (where light is absorbed).

What is emission spectroscopy?

Excited electrons return to lower energy levels, releasing photons.

What does an emission spectrum look like?

Bright lines at specific wavelengths (where light is emitted).

What is the difference between absorption and emission spectra?

• Absorption: Dark lines (electrons absorb energy)

• Emission: Bright lines (electrons release energy)

How can atomic spectroscopy be used?

To identify elements and determine their concentration in a sample.

What is an orbital?

A region where electrons are likely to be found.

What are the types of orbitals?

s, p, d, f (only need to know the shapes of s, p, and d).

What causes a line in the atomic emission spectrum?

An excited electron falls to a lower energy level, releasing a photon.

Why do different elements have unique spectra?

Each element has specific energy levels, leading to unique emission lines.

Why can emission spectra have multiple lines?

Electrons can transition between many different energy levels.