Spectrum
What is Spectrum?
In chemistry and physics, a spectrum is the distribution of electromagnetic radiation emitted, absorbed, or scattered by a substance as a function of wavelength or frequency. Atomic emission spectra consist of discrete lines characteristic of the energy-level transitions of electrons in atoms, while molecular spectra are more complex and include rotational, vibrational, and electronic transitions. Spectroscopy — the analysis of spectra — is one of the most powerful tools in chemical analysis and structure determination.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
In chemistry and physics, a spectrum is the distribution of electromagnetic radiation emitted, absorbed, or scattered by a substance as a function of wavelength or frequency. Atomic emission spectra consist of discrete lines characteristic of the energy-level transitions of electrons in atoms, while molecular spectra are more complex and include rotational, vibrational, and electronic transitions. Spectroscopy — the analysis of spectra — is one of the most powerful tools in chemical analysis and structure determination.