Question

periodic table
what causes the unique atomic spectra produced for each element?
a. atoms emit light as electrons jump up to higher energy levels.
b. atoms emit light as excited electrons drop down to lower energy levels.
c. atoms emit light as protons jump up to higher energy levels.
d. atoms emit light as excited protons drop down to lower energy levels.

Explanation:

Atomic spectra come from electrons (not protons) changing energy levels. Electrons emit light when dropping from higher (excited) to lower energy levels (absorb light when jumping up). So B is correct.

Answer:

B. Atoms emit light as excited electrons drop down to lower energy levels.