Emission line spectrum
What Emission line spectrum means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definitions of Emission line spectrum
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Emission line spectrum in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
Shows only bright lines at specific wavelengths on a dark background, produced when excited atoms in a low-pressure gas emit photons as electrons drop to lower energy levels.
A series of bright lines on a dark background, produced when a spectrometer spreads the light emitted by a hot gas.
Topics that use Emission line spectrum
- Electromagnetic radiation from stars (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Black-body modelling of stars
- Continuous spectrum
- Discrete energy levels
- Energy levels
- Estimation of stellar surface temperature
- Grating spacing
- Line spectra
- Luminosity
Using Emission line spectrum in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Physics questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge