How can a spectrum be used to identify a substance

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The Magazine News Observing. In emission spectra, bright lines will show up corresponding to the difference between energy levels of the elements, where in an absorption spectrum, the lines will be dark. By looking at the pattern of lines, scientists can figure out the energy levels of the elements in the sample. Since every element has unique energy levels, the spectra can help identify elements in a sample. First published in , Richard Gaughan has contributed to publications such as "Photonics Spectra," "The Scientist" and other magazines.

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These emission spectra are as distinctive to each element as fingerprints are to people. Thus, scientists can use atomic spectra to identify the elements in them. You can view the atomic spectrum of each element at. Here is a look at emission colors of light produced by four different elements.

Video from: Noel Pauller. This video show uses diffraction grating to show the emission spectra of several elements including hydrogen, oxygen, neon and nitrogen. Use of a tool such as a spectroscope would allow someone to determine the different wavelengths each of these elements is giving off. The color you observe in the video is the sum total of all of the visible emissions from each element. A common lab performed in chemistry involves flame tests of different metal salt compounds.

Different compounds will give off different colors of light. The color can be used to identify which elements are present in the salt. How can atomic spectra be used to identify elements?