Excited electronic state

Definition

An excited electronic state occurs when an electron in an atom absorbs energy and moves to a higher energy level than its ground state. This state is typically unstable and the electron will eventually return to a lower energy level, releasing energy in the process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electrons move to excited states by absorbing quantized amounts of energy.
2. The Bohr model describes electrons transitioning between discrete energy levels.
3. Excited states are temporary; electrons naturally revert to lower energy levels, often emitting photons.
4. Spectral lines observed in emission spectra are due to transitions from excited states back to lower energy states.
5. Each element has unique excited state energies corresponding to their specific electron configurations.

Related terms

Ground State: The lowest energy state of an atom or molecule where all electrons are in their lowest possible orbitals.

Photon: A quantum of electromagnetic radiation that carries energy proportional to its frequency.

Emission Spectrum:

A series of bright lines or bands seen when the light emitted by a substance passes through a prism or diffraction grating.