Science, Tech, Math › Science Spectrum Definition in Chemistry Print A spectrum is a set of wavelengths of light or electromagnetic radiation. Getty Images/LAWRENCE LAWRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY Science Chemistry Chemical Laws Basics Molecules Periodic Table Projects & Experiments Scientific Method Biochemistry Physical Chemistry Medical Chemistry Chemistry In Everyday Life Famous Chemists Activities for Kids Abbreviations & Acronyms Biology Physics Geology Astronomy Weather & Climate By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Chemistry Expert Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels. Learn about our Editorial Process Updated on July 03, 2019 A spectrum is defined as the characteristic wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation (or a portion thereof) that is emitted or absorbed by an object or substance, atom, or molecule. Read More What Is an Emission Spectrum in Science? By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D. Plural: Spectra Example Examples of a spectrum include the rainbow, the emission colors from the Sun, and the infrared absorption wavelengths from a molecule. Cite this Article Format mla apa chicago Your Citation Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Spectrum Definition in Chemistry." ThoughtCo, Aug. 28, 2020, thoughtco.com/definition-of-spectrum-604654. Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. (2020, August 28). Spectrum Definition in Chemistry. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-spectrum-604654 Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Spectrum Definition in Chemistry." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-spectrum-604654 (accessed April 23, 2024). copy citation