Question

The universe is filled with objects of extreme temperatures and densities, both high and low. The differences among the three types of spectra result from the various physical conditions in which the light is emitted, or through which it travels, before it is observed on Earth. The following three diagrams illustrate the use of a simple spectroscope in a laboratory. Match each diagram to the appropriate spectra. Note that a light bulb can be thought of as a hot, dense source of radiation.

Drag the appropriate diagram to its respective bin.

Answer 1

- A continuous spectrum is produced by a hot, high-density light source.
- An emission spectrum is produced by a hot, low-density light source.
- An absorption spectrum is produced by a hot, high-density light source shining through a cool, low-density medium.

Continuous = (image 2) hot bulb, screen
Emission = (image 3) heated hydrogen glass, screen
Absorption = (image 1) cool glass, hot bulb, screen