Absorption spectrum

A spectrum obtained by analysing the radiation after its passage through an absorbing medium, e.g. microwave, IR, and UV / Visible spectra.

Absorption spectrum of iodine

Emission spectrum

Following the absorption of primary radiation some materials give out secondary radiation, e.g. fluorescence and phosphorescence.

The spectrum obtained in such a situation is called an emission spectrum.

Emission spectrum of cadmium

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