WHY can't electrons absorb photons of any energy?

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SUMMARY

Electrons in atomic orbitals can only absorb photons that match the precise energy difference between quantized energy levels or exceed the ionization energy. If a photon has energy that does not correspond to these specific levels, the electron cannot absorb it. While the emission of excess energy is theoretically possible, it is highly improbable in practice, as demonstrated by techniques like Raman spectroscopy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics and atomic structure
  • Familiarity with energy levels and ionization energy
  • Knowledge of photon-electron interactions
  • Basic principles of spectroscopy, particularly Raman spectroscopy
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore quantum mechanics principles related to energy levels
  • Study the concept of ionization energy in various elements
  • Learn about photon absorption and emission processes
  • Investigate Raman spectroscopy techniques and applications
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focused on quantum mechanics, atomic theory, and spectroscopy. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to understand the limitations of photon absorption by electrons.

CAH
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hey!

So oribital electrons can only absorb photons if they are the exact amount of energy between energy levels unless it is more than the ionisation energy.

But why can't they? Couldn't they just emit the extra energy or 'keep' it?

Thanks :smile:
 
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CAH said:
Couldn't they just emit the extra energy
That process is possible, but very unlikely. Raman spectroscopy uses it, for example.
CAH said:
or 'keep' it?
They cannot. They cannot have an energy which does not correspond to one of the energy levels.
 

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