Emission Spectroscopy Flashcards

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What is emission spectroscopy?

A method that uses light from hot atoms to find out which elements are in a sample.

How is the light made in emission spectroscopy?

A sample is heated so its atoms gain energy and then give out light as they lose this energy.

What is an emission spectrum?

A pattern of coloured lines or bands made when light from hot atoms is split into its different colours.

Why does each element have its own unique emission spectrum?

Each element has its own set of energy levels, so it gives out a unique set of colours.

What instrument is used to split light into a spectrum in emission spectroscopy?

A spectroscope or spectrometer splits the light into a spectrum of colours.

How can emission spectroscopy be used to identify an element?

We compare the emission spectrum from the sample with known spectra and match the pattern of lines.

How can emission spectroscopy show that a mixture of elements is present?

If the spectrum has line patterns from more than one element, it shows the sample is a mixture.

Give two advantages of emission spectroscopy compared with simple flame tests.

It is more sensitive and can detect very small amounts, and it can identify different elements in a mixture.

Give one disadvantage of emission spectroscopy.

The equipment is expensive and needs trained people to use it.

Name one use of emission spectroscopy in real life.

It is used to find out which elements are in stars or to check the metals in alloys.