Emission Spectrum Viewer
See the coloured line spectra of hydrogen, helium, neon, sodium and more.
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What you can learn
- Each element emits light at its own set of wavelengths: a fingerprint.
- Hot solids give a continuous spectrum, but hot gases give bright lines.
- Astronomers use spectral lines to work out what stars are made of.
Frequently asked questions
Why does every element have a different spectrum?
Each element has a unique set of electron energy levels, so the photon energies released in jumps between them are unique too.
How is this used in real life?
In spectroscopy, to identify elements in stars, in flame tests, and in analysing materials.