Photons emitted between energy levels?

In summary, energy levels refer to the different states of energy that an atom can have and are quantized. Photons are emitted between energy levels when an atom transitions from a higher energy level to a lower one, carrying the difference in energy between the two levels. The energy of a photon is determined by the difference in energy between the levels involved in the transition. However, not all transitions are allowed by the laws of quantum mechanics. The emission of photons between energy levels is significant because it allows for the transfer of energy in the form of light and plays a crucial role in many natural phenomena and technological processes.
  • #1
CAH
48
0
See photo attachment! (question 1(b) and see answer on mark scheme underneath)

How can three photons be emitted? Either the electron drops down from 3 to 1 and skips 2 emitting one big 12.1 eV photon OR it falls down in step emitting two photons 1.9eV and 10.2eV. How can it emit more energy than its been given anyway?

Thanks
 

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  • #2
The question is not well formulated. It isn't that a single collision with a single atom will give off three photons, but rather that following the collision three possible photon energies can be observed.
 
  • #3
Exactly what I thought, just cheaking... thanks
 

1. What are energy levels?

Energy levels refer to the different states of energy that an atom can have. These levels are quantized, meaning they can only have certain discrete values.

2. How are photons emitted between energy levels?

When an atom transitions from a higher energy level to a lower one, it releases energy in the form of a photon. This photon carries the difference in energy between the two levels.

3. What determines the energy of a photon emitted between energy levels?

The energy of a photon is determined by the difference in energy between the two levels involved in the transition. This energy can be calculated using the equation E = hf, where E is the energy of the photon, h is Planck's constant, and f is the frequency of the photon.

4. Can photons be emitted between any two energy levels?

No, photons can only be emitted between energy levels that are allowed by the laws of quantum mechanics. This means that there are specific rules and restrictions on which transitions are possible.

5. What is the significance of photons emitted between energy levels?

The emission of photons between energy levels is important because it allows for the transfer of energy in the form of light. This process plays a crucial role in many natural phenomena, such as photosynthesis and the functioning of electronic devices.

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