Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Excitation occurs when an electron absorbs energy and moves to a higher energy level within an atom. This process is crucial in the formation of spectral lines observed in astronomy.
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Excitation can be caused by the absorption of photons or through collisions with other particles.
When an excited electron returns to a lower energy state, it emits a photon, resulting in an emission line.
The amount of energy absorbed during excitation corresponds to the difference between the electron's initial and final energy levels.
Each element has a unique set of energy levels, leading to characteristic spectral lines.
Understanding excitation helps astronomers determine the composition and physical conditions of astronomical objects.