Spectral lines take the shape of vertical lines because
A)the light is vertically polarized.
B)they are images of a vertical slit.
C)the energy levels in the atom are parallel to one another.
D)all of the above
E)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Spectral lines take the shape of vertical lines because they are images of a vertical slit. When light passes through a slit, it diffracts, and the resulting pattern is a series of bright and dark lines, which are the spectral lines. Therefore, the shape of the lines is determined by the shape of the slit.

Spectral Lines Take the Shape of Vertical Lines Because