Final answer:
Each line in the spectra represents the energy released as an electron moves from a higher energy state to a lower energy state. Emission lines are seen when electrons move from a higher energy level to a lower one, while absorption lines are seen when electrons absorb photons and move to higher energy levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
Each line in the spectra represents the energy released as an electron moves from a higher energy state to a lower energy state. When electrons move from a higher energy level to a lower one, photons are emitted, and an emission line can be seen in the spectrum. Absorption lines are seen when electrons absorb photons and move to higher energy levels.