Spectra refer to the range of different colors or wavelengths of light that can be produced by a source, such as a star or a prism. When light passes through a prism, it separates into its component colors, creating a visible spectrum that includes red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. This phenomenon helps scientists understand the properties of light and the materials it interacts with. In addition to visible light, spectra can also include infrared and ultraviolet wavelengths, which are not visible to the human eye. Each element emits or absorbs light at specific wavelengths, creating unique patterns known as spectral lines. These patterns are used in various fields, including astronomy and chemistry, to identify substances and analyze their composition.