3 - Fine structure in atomic spectra: electron spin and energy

Abstract

The fine structure in atomic spectral lines is of great significance for spectroscopy. Most of the elements found on this planet were formed during the initial few minutes right after the Big Bang, and these heavy elements (compared to hydrogen) can be sensed through their different spectral lines (and also through nuclear reactions). These studies show us how the elements and the atoms, as a whole, were formed. The structure of atoms has been studied for almost 120 years and has given us a better understanding of the finer details within atomic spectra. These fine structures have helped scientists learn more about Quantum Electrodynamics (QED). This chapter explains different spectra, how they are formed, the factors they depend on, the role of electron spin and energy, electronic configurations, Pauli exclusion, Aufbau principles, and more about fine structures. The fine structure also aids in the understanding of how atoms are formed through electron sharing between nuclei. Fine structures have been very useful in Quantum Physics because they have allowed us to learn more about how electrons behave within atoms, and from there, we can form a better understanding of how atoms come together in molecules.