continuous spectrum

noun

, Physics.

1. a spectrum apparently having all wavelengths over a comparatively wide range, usually characteristic of solids and other substances at high temperatures.

continuous spectrum

noun

1. a spectrum that contains or appears to contain all wavelengths but not spectrum lines over a wide portion of its range. The emission spectrum of incandescent solids is continuous; bremsstrahlung spectra consisting of a large number of lines may appear continuous

Word History and Origins

Origin of continuous spectrum¹

First recorded in 1900–05

Example Sentences

Also a certain kind of continuous spectrum, as well as reflected solar light showing Frauenhofer lines, have been seen.

From Project Gutenberg

Besides the continuous spectrum with dark lines, the photograph showed also a spectrum of bright lines.

From Project Gutenberg

The gaseous spectrum of comets is accompanied, in varying degrees, by a continuous spectrum.

From Project Gutenberg

A faint continuous spectrum corresponded to this portion of its radiance; but gaseous emissions were also present.

From Project Gutenberg

It is this which yields the continuous spectrum, free from dark lines.

From Project Gutenberg