Colorful Light Show: The Magic of Atomic Emission Spectra

What happens when an electric current is passed through a tube containing helium?

Choose one:

a) Helium atoms absorb and reemit the electrical energy as a specific color of light

b) Helium atoms absorb the electrical energy and emit sound waves

Answer:

a) Helium atoms absorb and reemit the electrical energy as a specific color of light

When an electric current is passed through a tube containing helium, the helium atoms absorb the energy and reemit it as light of a specific color. This phenomenon is known as Atomic Emission Spectra, where each element emits light at distinct wavelengths based on the electron transitions within the atom.

This colorful light show is a result of electrons in the helium atoms being excited to higher energy levels by the electrical current and then transitioning back to lower energies. The emitted light's color corresponds to these electron transitions, creating a unique emission spectrum for helium.

Similar to helium, other elements also exhibit their own emission spectra, showcasing the diverse range of colors and patterns in the light emitted. For example, when hydrogen gas is excited by an electric current, it emits a pink light due to specific electron transitions.

Atomic Emission Spectra play a crucial role in understanding the composition of elements and their unique properties. By studying these emission lines, scientists can identify elements present in various substances and analyze their atomic structures.