Absorption Spectrum
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Absorption Spectrum
The array of
absorption lines and
absorption bands
which results from the passage of radiant energy from a continuous
source through a selectively absorbing medium cooler than the
source. See
electromagnetic spectrum.
The absorption spectrum is a characteristic of the absorbing
medium, just as an emission spectrum is a characteristic of a
radiator.
An absorption spectrum formed by a monatomic gas exhibits
discrete dark lines, whereas that formed by a polyatomic gas exhibits
ordered arrays (bands) of dark lines, which appear to overlap.
This type of absorption is often referred to as line absorption.
The spectrum formed by a selectively absorbing liquid or solid
is typically continuous in nature (continuous absorption).
References
This article is based on NASA's Dictionary of Technical Terms for Aerospace Use
