Photoexcitation stages of an atom?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the photoexcitation of atoms, specifically addressing whether multiple photons are required to reach a specific energy level or if a single photon can suffice. It is established that an atom can be excited to a higher energy state using a single photon if the transition involves a change in angular momentum (delta L = 1). The conversation also touches on the excitation wavelengths of 500nm, 450nm, and 300nm, indicating that reaching the 300nm level does not necessitate prior excitation at longer wavelengths.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photoexcitation and electronic transitions in atoms
  • Knowledge of photon energy and wavelength relationships
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics principles, particularly angular momentum in atomic transitions
  • Basic concepts of atomic energy levels and excitation wavelengths
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  • Review the physics of electronic transitions in atoms
  • Study the relationship between photon energy and wavelength using the equation E = hc/λ
  • Explore the concept of delta L in quantum mechanics and its implications for atomic transitions
  • Investigate the excitation wavelengths required for specific atoms, such as liquid oxygen
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and atomic physics, as well as researchers interested in the photoexcitation processes of various elements.

HMS-776
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Just wondering about photoexcitation of an atom.

Say I have an atom that has excitation wavelengths of 500nm, 450nm, and 300nm.

If I want to get to the level that is equal to 300nm, do I have to first hit the atom with the 500nm, and 450nm. Or can I just hit the atom with 300nm?

Does excitation have to be done in stages or can one just use a single photon to excite the atom to a specific level?
 
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HMS-776 said:
Just wondering about photoexcitation of an atom. Say I have an atom that has excitation wavelengths of 500nm, 450nm, and 300nm. If I want to get to the level that is equal to 300nm, do I have to first hit the atom with the 500nm, and 450nm. Or can I just hit the atom with 300nm? Does excitation have to be done in stages or can one just use a single photon to excite the atom to a specific level?
Hello HMS again-
You cannot get to the 2S or 3D etc. from the 1S. You can get to the 2P or 3P etc. from the 1S. You can get to the final state with one photon if delta L = 1.
Review the physics of electronic transitions in atoms..
Bob S
 
I guess I need to be more specific, I'm wondering about the following:


OxygenElectronicstatesdiagram-1.gif


Say I have all the wavelengths below from 1269-381 nm. What wavelengths would I need to excite the liquid oxygen to it's highest possible energy?

What wavelengths would not be needed?
 

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