How are atomic emission spectra used to identify elements?
a) as the atom emits photons at precise frequencies it creates a similar atomic emission spectra to other atoms within its group.
b) atoms absorb photons and emit energy at definitive frequencies creating a universal atomic emission spectra common to all atoms. c) when the atom absorbs photons, energy can only be emitted at specific frequencies creating a characteristic atomic emission spectra.
d) the atom absorbs photons and emits a continuous spectrum of energy but only certain frequencies can be detected creating the spectra.