Chapter 34, Problem 1ASA

To determine

The difference between continuous spectra and line spectra and their causes.

Answer to Problem 1ASA

Continuous spectra are a series of colors in sequence and often merged, comprising all wavelengths in the visible spectrum, it is induced by the incandescent light. A series with bright lines divided by a dark line or region is referred to as a line spectra or discrete spectra, it is induced by the atomic structure of the transition from the atom or electron.

Explanation of Solution

When electron moves from one orbit to another, energy is released or absorbed. The energy diagram is a spectral analysis which analyzes the atomic particle details. Incandescent light created series of characteristic color bands.

There are two types of spectra:

1. (I)                Continuous spectra
2. (II)              Line spectra

Conclusion:

Continuous spectra are a series of colors in sequence and often merged, comprising all wavelengths in the visible spectrum. A series with bright lines divided by a dark line or region is referred to as a line spectra or discrete spectra.

The continuous spectrum is induced by the incandescent light, while line spectrum is induced by the atomic structure of the transition from the atom or electron.