Atomic excitation and electron orbits

It is not just about one electron jumping, it's a transformation.In summary, the speaker has a question about atomic excitation and its relationship with hydrogen-like atoms. They are wondering how the electron can jump to a higher energy level when there are no higher orbits, and if the atoms grow in radius when excited and return to normal when emitting energy as photons. The expert summarizer clarifies that it is a transformation to an orbital of higher energy, not a literal jump, and it involves more than one electron.
  • #1
cooper607
49
0
hi guys,
i have a basic question over the atomic excitation and it's relationship with the hydrogen like atoms. we know while excitation the electron in the ground state jump to the higher orbits. but when hydrogen or atoms containing little principal quantum numbered orbits get excited , then how can their electrons jump into the next level, as they don't even have higher orbits ?
this question might seem silly but i m in badly need of a clear concept on this...do the atoms grow in radius while excited and get back to normal while radiating the energy as photon ?
please help
regards
 
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  • #2
You are interpreting the phrase "jump to higher orbit" literally. It is much proper to say "transform to an orbital of higher energy".
 

FAQ: Atomic excitation and electron orbits

What is atomic excitation?

Atomic excitation is a process in which an atom's electrons are excited to higher energy levels. This can occur when the atom absorbs energy, such as through collisions with other particles or through exposure to light or heat.

How do electrons move in their orbits?

Electrons move in their orbits in a specific pattern called an electron cloud. This cloud is the most probable location for the electron to be found, and the exact path of the electron is unpredictable due to the principles of quantum mechanics.

What causes electrons to move to higher energy levels?

Electrons move to higher energy levels when they absorb energy, such as through collisions or exposure to light. This energy causes the electron to jump to a higher energy level, where it remains until it releases the energy and returns to its original, lower energy level.

Can electrons move between energy levels without absorbing or releasing energy?

No, electrons can only move between energy levels by absorbing or releasing energy. The energy difference between each energy level is specific and cannot be skipped over.

What happens when electrons return to their original energy level?

When electrons return to their original energy level, they release the absorbed energy in the form of light. This is known as emission, and the specific wavelength of light emitted is unique to each element, making it useful for identifying elements in spectroscopy.

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