Emission spectrum of hydrogen. When atoms of an element are excited ( by heating), they return to their state of lowest energy by emitting radia-

---

Emission spectrum of hydrogen. When atoms of an element are excited ( by heating), they return to their state of lowest energy by emitting radia- tion at specific wavelengths. If this radiation is passed through a spectrometer, a spectrum is prod- uced which displays the element's characteristic emission \lines\". The lines are a unique \"finger- print\" of an element. Hydrogen's predominant lines are at 6563 (red), 4861 (cyan) & 4340 angstroms (blue). The many fainter lines are not visible in this photo. Hydrogen atoms can exist in a number of energy states, producing 4 different spectra. This example is known as a \"Balmer spectrum\"."

---

Size: 4501px × 3160px
Photo credit: © DEPT. OF PHYSICS, IMPERIAL COLLEGE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: -, atomic, balmer, chemical, chemistry, element, elements, emission, hydroge, hydrogen, particle, physics, spectroscopy, spectrum, structure