MDCAT Physics MCQ #308

Why does a hydrogen atom emit a discrete line spectrum instead of a continuous one?

MDCAT Physics MCQ #308

  1. Question 1

    Q1. Why does a hydrogen atom emit a discrete line spectrum instead of a continuous one?

    • A) Electrons emit photons continuously while orbiting the nucleus.
    • B) Electrons transition between quantized energy levels, emitting photons of specific frequencies.
    • C) The nucleus vibrates at fixed frequencies, producing distinct spectral lines.
    • D) Thermal excitation of atoms causes regular photon emission.

    Answer: Electrons transition between quantized energy levels, emitting photons of specific frequencies.

    Explanation: Electron transitions between quantized levels determine photon energy. Option A fails because electron orbits are quantized, not continuous.