Electronic Transitions: Energy, Spin & More

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In summary, electrons can make transitions between their discrete energy states when provided with sufficient energy. However, these transitions are all or nothing and do not occur between orbits. If an electron does transition to a higher energy state, it may come back to its original state by emitting radiation. The exact energy state that an electron will settle in is determined by factors other than energy, and its spin may or may not be retained during these transitions. At low temperatures, the transitions may be different due to the amount of energy available.
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Ravian
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1- upon getting sufficient energy, electrons make transitions in between their orbits. suppose an electron, from the first orbit, is provided energy that is enough for it to settle down some where between 3rd and 4th orbit, will it make an orbit of its own there if the source of energy does not exhust? Or it will come back to its original orbit by emitting radiations even if source of energy does not exhaust?
2- on its way back can it settle down in 2nd (say!) orbit or somwhere between 1st and 2nd orbit?
3- apart from energy , what else determines in where electron will settle down?
4- do they retain their spin during these transitions or it can be flipped?
5- if we consider the same situation at low temperature then will there be any difference in transitions?
 
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Don't think of them as orbits. They are discrete states. There is no "between" orbits. And so as far as transitions go, it's all or nothing. Either there is enough energy for a transition or not. If there is not, nothing happens.
 

1. What are electronic transitions?

Electronic transitions refer to the movement of electrons between energy levels in an atom or molecule. This movement can occur when the atom or molecule absorbs or emits energy, resulting in a change in its electronic configuration.

2. How does energy play a role in electronic transitions?

Energy is essential for electronic transitions as it is the driving force behind the movement of electrons between energy levels. When an atom or molecule absorbs energy, its electrons can move to higher energy levels, and when it emits energy, the electrons move to lower energy levels.

3. What is the difference between spin-up and spin-down electrons?

Spin-up and spin-down refer to the two possible orientations of an electron's spin. Spin-up electrons have a positive spin, while spin-down electrons have a negative spin. The spin of an electron can affect its behavior in an electronic transition.

4. How do electronic transitions affect the color of a substance?

Electronic transitions can result in the absorption or emission of specific wavelengths of light. The color we see in a substance is determined by the wavelengths of light that are absorbed or reflected by its electrons during electronic transitions.

5. What is the significance of electronic transitions in chemistry and physics?

Electronic transitions play a crucial role in understanding the behavior and properties of atoms and molecules in chemistry and physics. They are essential for explaining phenomena such as the absorption and emission of light, the formation of chemical bonds, and the behavior of materials in electronic devices.

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