Spectral lines act like fingerprints that identify atoms and molecules.
Spectral lines are unique patterns of light emitted or absorbed by an atom or molecule at specific wavelengths or frequencies. These patterns are caused by the transitions of electrons within an atom or molecule, and are specific to each element or compound.
There are different types of spectroscopy used to study spectral lines, each one specific to a range of frequencies:
-In the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum, we have the absorption or emission spectra.
-In the infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum, we have the infrared spectra.
-In the ultraviolet and visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum, we have the ultraviolet-visible spectra.
-In the X-ray region of the electromagnetic spectrum, we have the X-ray spectra.
Each type of spectroscopy provides a unique set of information about the sample being studied, and can be used to identify and quantify specific elements or compounds.
Spectral lines are extremely specific and unique, like fingerprints, and can be used to identify and distinguish one atom or molecule from another.