Evaluate Atomic Spectra

In this lab experience, students explore light and learn that the intensity, or brightness, of light is not the same as the amount of energy a particular color of light possesses then interact with a virtual reality spectrum tube activity to solidify their understanding of the structure of the atom. Students make connections about the electrons in different substances when photons are emitted by viewing the substance with the diffraction grating and spectroscope. Each elemental gas in the spectrum tubes has a unique emission spectra, essentially a unique fingerprint that identifies the element. Completed data tables allow students to record their observations and compare and contrast the various colors of the emission lines and their wavelengths. The use of the spectroscope allows the students to quantify and assign a wavelength value to each emission line. Students are amazed to learn that various light sources around us are made up of materials found in the periodic table, and are further amazed when they relate their findings to atomic structure!