Shifting atomic spectrum

In summary, the absorption spectrum of an atom can be shifted using electric or magnetic fields, but not enough to change the color of an object. Additionally, atoms can be excited to a certain energy level by applying external fields, but would require a much stronger field than what is currently available. This is evident in the lack of effect on chemistry in NMR and MRI machines, which have some of the strongest fields.
  • #1
Relena
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Can the absorption spectrum of an atom be shifted significantly using electric or magnetic fields ?
such that to turn red to blue or something ?

Another question, can atoms be excited to a certain energy level by applying external fields only with calculated energy ?

thanks
 
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  • #2
Relena said:
Can the absorption spectrum of an atom be shifted significantly using electric or magnetic fields ? such that to turn red to blue or something ?

It can be shifted (See Zeeman, Stark effects). But not enough to change the color of an object, in practice. This would require too strong a field.

Another question, can atoms be excited to a certain energy level by applying external fields only with calculated energy ?

Does a photon count as a field?
Anyway, yes static magnetic or electric field could excite an electron as well, but would require a field much much stronger than anything we have. Consider that some of the strongest fields around are in NMR and MRI machines, and these have no effect on chemistry at all. (which would've been the case if they were causing any excitations.
 

Related to Shifting atomic spectrum

1. What is "shifting atomic spectrum"?

"Shifting atomic spectrum" refers to the phenomenon of the spectral lines of an atom appearing at different wavelengths than expected. This can occur due to changes in the energy levels of the atom, caused by external factors such as temperature or pressure.

2. How does "shifting atomic spectrum" occur?

The shifting of atomic spectrum occurs when an atom absorbs or emits energy, causing its electrons to jump to different energy levels. This results in the spectral lines appearing at different wavelengths, as each energy level corresponds to a specific wavelength of light.

3. What causes the energy levels of an atom to change?

Several factors can cause the energy levels of an atom to change, including changes in temperature, pressure, or the presence of an external electromagnetic field. These changes can affect the movement and arrangement of the atom's electrons, resulting in a shifting atomic spectrum.

4. How is "shifting atomic spectrum" studied and measured?

Scientists use a device called a spectroscope to study and measure the shifting atomic spectrum of an atom. This instrument separates the different wavelengths of light emitted by the atom, allowing researchers to observe and analyze the changes in the spectral lines.

5. What is the importance of studying "shifting atomic spectrum"?

Studying shifting atomic spectrum can provide valuable insights into the behavior and properties of atoms. It can also help scientists understand the effects of external factors on an atom's energy levels and how these changes can impact its behavior and interactions with other atoms. This research has various applications in fields such as chemistry, physics, and astronomy.

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