line spectrum

noun

, Physics.

1. an electromagnetic spectrum consisting of discrete lines, usually characteristic of excited atoms or molecules.

line spectrum

1. An image of colored lines or bands of light formed in optical spectroscopy , each line representing one of the frequencies in the spectrum of a light source. The light source is usually broken into individual bands by a prism or a diffraction grating.

Word History and Origins

Origin of line spectrum¹

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

This nebula gives a bright line spectrum indicative of gaseous composition.

From Project Gutenberg

The positive rays show, when the pressure is not very low, the line spectrum of the gas through which they pass.

From Project Gutenberg

If the rate of increase is rapid, the dark-line spectrum shown by the majority of the stars will appear.

From Project Gutenberg

The defect is also demonstrated by viewing a line-spectrum focused on a ground glass.

From Project Gutenberg

This effect is perhaps best witnessed on viewing a line spectrum such as that of the mercury arc, focused upon a ground glass.

From Project Gutenberg