Lifetime an atom can spend in an excited state

In summary, an excited state of an atom occurs when its electrons absorb energy and move to a higher energy level. This can happen through various forms of energy, such as heat, light, or electricity. An atom can enter an excited state when it absorbs energy from an outside source, and the length of time it stays in this state varies depending on the type of atom and the energy level reached. When an atom returns to its ground state, it releases the absorbed energy in the form of photons, which creates the characteristic emission spectra of elements. However, an atom cannot stay in an excited state permanently as it will eventually return to its ground state due to the laws of thermodynamics.
  • #1
randa177
91
1
Can you please give me a hint to start this problem?

The Einstein Aij coefficients are related to the lifetime an atom can spend in an excited state i before going to state j. Using Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle, show that large values of Aij lead to line profiles with large values of (lamda)

Thanks
 
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  • #2
Heisenberg uncertainty principle: [tex] \Delta E \cdot \Delta t \sim \hbar [/tex]

Let delta-t be the lifetime of the state. How is E related to lambda?
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Oh, thanks a lot! That is very easy now!
Thanks
Randa
 

What is an excited state of an atom?

An excited state of an atom is when its electrons have absorbed energy and moved to a higher energy level. This can happen through various forms of energy, such as heat, light, or electricity.

What causes an atom to enter an excited state?

An atom can enter an excited state when it absorbs energy from an outside source, such as light or heat. This causes its electrons to jump to higher energy levels.

How long can an atom stay in an excited state?

The length of time an atom can spend in an excited state varies depending on the type of atom and the energy level it has reached. Some atoms may only stay excited for fractions of a second, while others can stay in an excited state for hours.

What happens when an atom returns to its ground state?

When an atom returns to its ground state, its electrons release the absorbed energy in the form of photons (light particles). This is what causes the characteristic emission spectra of elements.

Can an atom stay in an excited state permanently?

No, an atom cannot stay in an excited state permanently. Eventually, the electrons will return to their ground state and the atom will no longer be excited. This is due to the laws of thermodynamics, which state that all systems tend towards a state of lower energy.

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