atomic spectra

Atomic spectra refer to the unique patterns of light emitted or absorbed by atoms. When an atom's electrons jump between energy levels, they release or absorb specific amounts of energy, producing light at characteristic wavelengths. These wavelengths form a spectrum, which acts like a fingerprint for each element, allowing scientists to identify the presence of specific atoms in stars, gases, or materials. The spectra include lines of different colors (or frequencies), resulting from these electronic transitions, and they help us understand atomic structure and composition of substances in the universe.