Each line in an atomic emission spectrum represents the energy:

• A. absorbed when an electron transitions from a lower to a higher energy level
• B. used to break chemical bonds in the atom
• C. stored in the nucleus of the atom
• D. released when an electron transitions from a higher to a lower energy level

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that an atomic emission spectrum is produced when electrons in an atom move from higher energy levels to lower energy levels, releasing energy in the form of light.
2. Recall that the energy of the emitted light corresponds to the difference in energy between the two energy levels involved in the electron transition.
3. Express the energy change using the formula \(\Delta E = E_{\text{higher}} - E_{\text{lower}}\), where \(\Delta E\) is the energy released as a photon.
4. Recognize that each line in the emission spectrum corresponds to a specific photon energy, which is related to a specific electron transition between energy levels.
5. Conclude that the lines in the atomic emission spectrum represent the energy released when an electron transitions from a higher to a lower energy level.