2.14 Use spectra to identify the presence of elements (by comparison, not calculation).

How can spectra be used to identify the presence of elements?

Spectral Lines: Each element emits or absorbs light at specific wavelengths, creating unique spectral lines.

Identification: By comparing the observed spectral lines from a sample to known spectral lines for different elements, you can identify the elements present in the sample.

Emission Spectra: When elements are energized, they emit light at characteristic wavelengths (bright lines) that can be matched with reference spectra.

Absorption Spectra: When light passes through a sample, the element absorbs specific wavelengths, leaving dark lines that correspond to those wavelengths.

Example: The hydrogen spectrum shows specific lines in the red, green, and blue regions, which can be used to confirm the presence of hydrogen in a sample.

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