How do atoms emit light?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the process by which atoms release light energy, which involves concepts like electron transitions and energy levels within atoms.
Answer
Atoms emit light when electrons move from higher to lower energy levels.
Atoms emit light when electrons transition from higher energy levels (excited states) to lower energy levels, releasing energy in the form of photons. The energy of these photons corresponds to the difference between the two energy levels.
Answer for screen readers
Atoms emit light when electrons transition from higher energy levels (excited states) to lower energy levels, releasing energy in the form of photons. The energy of these photons corresponds to the difference between the two energy levels.
More Information
The process of emission is the reverse of absorption, where electrons absorb energy to move to higher energy levels. The emitted light is characteristic of the specific electron transitions within atoms.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the direction of electron transition that causes emission versus absorption of light.
Sources
- Background: Atoms and Light Energy - Imagine the Universe! - NASA - imagine.gsfc.nasa.gov
- Spectroscopy - Atoms and Light - Harper College - dept.harpercollege.edu
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