Will an electron release energy when it is added into an atom?

In summary, an electron will release energy when it is added to an atom if it moves to a lower energy level, resulting in the emission of energy, typically in the form of a photon. Conversely, if an electron is added to an atom and occupies a higher energy level, it will absorb energy. The overall energy change depends on the electron's initial and final states within the atom.
  • #1
Sameer Tahir
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According to my understanding, when an electron is added into an atom, it emits energy in the form of photons because it is a form of de-excitation or relaxation. This is when electron affinity will be positive (exothermic). But there is one case where energy must be provided to an electron for it to overcome the repulsive forces of the electrons of the atom in which it is going to be added. Now, in this case I think the electron will still release its energy in the form of photons when it is added. However, because net energy change (Energy released in the form of photons - Energy provided to the electron) is negative (endothermic) therefore in this case we say the electron affinity of such atoms is negative.

Is this understanding of Electron Affinity correct?
 
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  • #2
Sameer Tahir said:
But there is one case where energy must be provided to an electron for it to overcome the repulsive forces of the electrons of the atom in which it is going to be added.
Is it even possible to add an electron if the process is not net exothermic?
 
  • #3
We can accelerate the electron using thermal energy or electric potential to provide that electron sufficient kinetic energy to "penetrate" its way into the repulsion of that atom's electrons.
 
  • #4
Ok, but will it create a bounded system?
 
  • #5
I think Electron will release the energy in the form of EM radiations. But I am not sure.
 
  • #6
Sameer Tahir said:
I think Electron will release the energy in the form of EM radiations. But I am not sure.
Yes, the released energy will appear in the form of EM radiation. But I think you're missing the point of @weirdoguy's (probably rhetorical) and my (definitely rhetorical) questions.
 
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  • #7
Sorry but I am not a physics guy. I am just at college level. If you can simplify your point so I can understand it.
 

FAQ: Will an electron release energy when it is added into an atom?

1. What happens when an electron is added to an atom?

When an electron is added to an atom, it can occupy a higher energy level or orbital. If the electron is added to an already filled orbital, it may lead to instability, and the atom may release energy in the form of electromagnetic radiation as it transitions to a more stable state.

2. Does the addition of an electron always result in energy release?

No, the addition of an electron does not always result in energy release. If the electron occupies a higher energy level without causing the atom to transition to a lower energy state, energy may not be released. The energy dynamics depend on the specific electron configuration and the atom's stability.

3. What type of energy is released when an electron is added to an atom?

The energy released when an electron is added to an atom is typically in the form of electromagnetic radiation, such as light or heat. This occurs when the electron transitions from a higher energy state to a lower energy state, emitting energy in the process.

4. Can the addition of an electron lead to the formation of ions?

Yes, the addition of an electron can lead to the formation of negative ions, known as anions. When an atom gains an electron, it becomes negatively charged due to the imbalance between the number of protons and electrons, which can also influence the energy dynamics of the system.

5. How does the energy release relate to the stability of the atom?

The energy release is closely related to the stability of the atom. Atoms tend to seek a stable electron configuration, often resembling that of noble gases. When an electron is added and the atom achieves a more stable configuration, energy is typically released. Conversely, if the addition of the electron makes the atom less stable, it may not release energy or could even absorb energy to reach a more stable state.

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