Emission

Emission is an audio-visual art piece made in collaboration with astrophysicist Jo Verwohlt. It was part of our exhibition Interference in Nikolaj Kunsthal February-May 2023.

Emission consists of four gas tubes, each containing a different element: neon (red), mercury (blue), helium (pink), and argon (purple). Sonification of the spectral lines for each element determines the tonality of their individual compositions heard in the headphones.

Spectral lines are distinct regions within an otherwise continuous spectrum, characterized by either the emission or absorption of light within a narrow frequency range compared to the surrounding frequencies. These spectral lines can be used to identify specific atoms and molecules.

When atoms absorb or emit light, the electrons undergo transitions between different energy levels or orbits around the nucleus. These transitions result in the emission or absorption of photons with specific energies corresponding to the energy difference between the involved energy levels. As a result, each element has its own characteristic set of spectral lines, which are determined by the unique arrangement of electrons within its atoms.

In the context of this art work, each light frequency associated with a spectral line is converted into a corresponding sound frequency, creating a musical representation of the elements' emission characteristics. This conversion allows for the exploration of the relationship between light and sound. While our eyes are unable to discern distinct frequencies occurring simultaneously in the same location, our ears possess the ability to perceive multiple frequencies concurrently, granting us a unique auditory perception.

Quality loadspeakers or headphones are required for the full experience of the music.

Photo of the opening by Mads Holm. Other photos by David Stjernholm.