Spectral Line Shape

Spectral line shape refers to the appearance of a specific wavelength of light emitted or absorbed by atoms or molecules when viewed through a spectrometer. Ideally, this would be a sharp line; however, various factors—such as temperature, pressure, and Doppler effects—broaden and alter this line, creating a shape that may be Gaussian or Lorentzian. Understanding the shape helps scientists determine properties of the emitting or absorbing material, such as temperature, density, and velocity, making it essential in fields like astrophysics, chemistry, and environmental science.