Energy of Electrons: Explained

In summary, the energy of an electron increases with distance from the nucleus, but decreases with distance from other electrons due to the nature of electric potential energy and the charges of the particles involved. The sign of the potential energy denotes the type of force (attractive or repulsive), while the magnitude shows the actual energy. This can be remembered with the concept of a "potential well" where particles fall down (negative) as they get closer to each other.
  • #1
henry3369
194
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So when my book explains energy of electrons it says that the further an electron is from the nucleus the higher the energy, which is why orbitals that are further away have higher energy levels. Then later in the chapter it explains that the greater the distance between two electrons, the lower the energy. I don't understand how the first case is possible. Electric potential energy = kq1q2/r, so increasing distance, decreases the electric potential energy. Also why would the energy of the electron depend on the charges (One situation the energy increases with distance while the other, energy decreases with distance)? Doesn't the sign just denote if it is attractive or repulsive, and the magnitude actually shows the energy?
 
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  • #2
The sign is important . Comparisons are drawn based on the algebriac value of potential energy .
 
  • #3
henry3369 said:
So when my book explains energy of electrons it says that the further an electron is from the nucleus the higher the energy, which is why orbitals that are further away have higher energy levels. Then later in the chapter it explains that the greater the distance between two electrons, the lower the energy. I don't understand how the first case is possible. Electric potential energy = kq1q2/r, so increasing distance, decreases the electric potential energy. Also why would the energy of the electron depend on the charges (One situation the energy increases with distance while the other, energy decreases with distance)? Doesn't the sign just denote if it is attractive or repulsive, and the magnitude actually shows the energy?

If a force is attractive, then the further away two particles are, the greater their potential energy.

If the force is repulsive, then the further away two particles are, the lower is their potential energy.
 
  • #4
Theexpression "Potential Well" is a good description and a way of remembering which way round the sign goes. Start with zero potential at infinity (great distance) and fall down (negative) you get closer.
 

1. What is the energy of an electron?

The energy of an electron refers to the amount of energy it possesses while in motion. This energy is typically measured in units of electron volts (eV) and is determined by the electron’s speed and position.

2. How is the energy of an electron related to its orbit?

The energy of an electron is directly related to its orbit around the nucleus of an atom. Electrons in higher energy orbits have more energy than those in lower energy orbits. This is because the distance from the nucleus affects the electron’s speed and potential energy.

3. What determines the energy levels of an electron?

The energy levels of an electron are determined by the quantum numbers of the electron, which describe its position, orientation, and spin. These quantum numbers are based on the electron’s energy, angular momentum, and magnetic moment.

4. How do electrons release energy?

Electrons can release energy when they transition from a higher energy level to a lower energy level. This process is known as emission and can occur through various mechanisms such as photon emission or heat transfer.

5. How does the energy of an electron impact chemical reactions?

The energy of an electron plays a crucial role in chemical reactions as it determines the stability and reactivity of atoms and molecules. Electrons can be transferred, shared, or rearranged in chemical reactions, leading to changes in the energy of the system.

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