Which statement accurately describes the relationship between electron shells and energy levels?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the relationship between electron shells (also known as energy levels) and their distance from the nucleus of an atom. You need to identify the statement that correctly describes how the energy of an electron shell changes as its distance from the nucleus increases or decreases.
Answer
Energy levels increase as you move to outer electron shells, meaning outer shells have higher energy.
Electron shells are energy levels, with those farther from the nucleus having higher energy. Therefore, electrons in outer shells possess more energy than those in inner shells.
Answer for screen readers
Electron shells are energy levels, with those farther from the nucleus having higher energy. Therefore, electrons in outer shells possess more energy than those in inner shells.
More Information
In an atom, electrons arrange themselves in specific energy levels or shells around the nucleus. The closer an electron is to the nucleus, the lower its energy level, while electrons farther away have higher energy levels.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking all electron shells have the same energy. Remember that energy increases with distance from the nucleus.
Sources
AI-generated content may contain errors. Please verify critical information