Absorption spectra

Absorption spectra refer to the specific wavelengths of light that a substance absorbs when exposed to a continuous spectrum of light. When light passes through a gas or liquid, certain wavelengths are absorbed by the atoms or molecules in the substance. This creates dark lines or bands in the spectrum, indicating the absorbed colors. Scientists use absorption spectra to identify elements and compounds, as each has a unique pattern of absorption. This technique is crucial in fields like astronomy, chemistry, and environmental science, allowing us to understand the composition of distant stars and the properties of various materials.