The excitation of an atom by electromagnetic radiation and the emission of electromagnetic radiation from the excited atom is called what?

Prepare for the Chemistry CFE Test with our comprehensive quiz. Study using flashcards and multiple choice questions, each supplemented by hints and explanations. Get ready to excel!

Multiple Choice

The excitation of an atom by electromagnetic radiation and the emission of electromagnetic radiation from the excited atom is called what?

Explanation:
Absorbing a photon lifts an electron to a higher energy level, and when it relaxes back, it emits radiation. This combined sequence is an electronic (atomic) transition driven by electromagnetic radiation. Among the options, electron excitation fits best because it describes promoting the electron to a higher energy state. Ionization would remove the electron entirely, a nuclear transition involves the nucleus, and the Auger effect is a non-radiative relaxation that ejects another electron instead of emitting a photon.

Absorbing a photon lifts an electron to a higher energy level, and when it relaxes back, it emits radiation. This combined sequence is an electronic (atomic) transition driven by electromagnetic radiation. Among the options, electron excitation fits best because it describes promoting the electron to a higher energy state. Ionization would remove the electron entirely, a nuclear transition involves the nucleus, and the Auger effect is a non-radiative relaxation that ejects another electron instead of emitting a photon.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy