Colors seen in the flames of a burning log originate with the variety of
A)multi-layered incandescent surfaces.
B)electron transitions in various atoms.
C)temperatures.
D)absorbing gases between the log and the viewer.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The colors seen in the flames of a burning log originate from electron transitions in various atoms. As the atoms heat up, the electrons are excited to higher energy levels and then fall back down to their original level, releasing energy in the form of photons of light. Different colors correspond to different energies of the photons emitted, which in turn depend on the specific atoms involved and the temperature of the flame.

Colors Seen in the Flames of a Burning Log Originate