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.

The correct answer is option C) When the atom absorbs photons, energy can only be emitted at specific frequencies creating a characteristic atomic emission spectra.

Explanation:

Emission spectrometry is a spectroscopic technique that analyzes the wavelengths of photons emitted by atoms or molecules during their transition from an excited state to a lower energy state. Each element emits a characteristic set of discrete wavelengths based on its electronic structure.

That is, each atom is capable of emitting or absorbing electromagnetic radiation, although only at some frequencies that are characteristic of each of the different chemical elements. If a certain element is stimulated in its gas phase, its atoms emit radiation at certain frequencies of the visible, which constitute its emission spectrum.

Expressed in other words, when a substance radiates with electromagnetic radiation the electrons choose the radiation of this continuous spectrum to produce jumps at higher levels (excited state).

When an electron jumps from its fundamental state to higher energy levels (excited state) and falls back to lower energy levels, the emission of a photon of a defined wavelength occurs that appears as a specific line or line in the spectrum broadcast. Electromagnetic radiation from radiation after passing through the substance is missing a series of lines that correspond to electronic jumps from the fundamental state to the excited state. It is what is called an absorption spectrum.

In summary, because each atom is capable of emitting or absorbing electromagnetic radiation, although only at some frequencies that are characteristic of each of the different chemical elements, the correct answer is option C) When the atom absorbs photons, energy can only be emitted at specific frequencies creating a characteristic atomic emission spectra.