As an electron moves closer to the nucleus, energy is:
a. absorbed
b. released
c. remains unchanged
d. transformed into a proton
Energy is absorbed to move an electron to higher energy levels.
absorbed
As an electron moves closer to the nucleus, energy is: b. released.
When an electron moves closer to the nucleus, it loses potential energy. According to the Bohr model of the atom, electrons have specific energy levels, and as they move closer to the nucleus, their energy level decreases. The release of energy can occur in the form of photons or electromagnetic radiation.-
The correct answer is b. released.
To understand why energy is released as an electron moves closer to the nucleus, we need to consider the concept of energy levels in an atom. In an atom, electrons occupy specific energy levels or orbitals located at various distances from the nucleus.
The energy of an electron depends on its position or distance from the nucleus. Electrons in higher energy levels have more energy than those in lower energy levels. When an electron moves closer to the nucleus, it transitions from a higher energy level to a lower energy level.
According to the conservation of energy, when an electron transitions to a lower energy level, it must lose energy. This energy is released in the form of electromagnetic radiation, such as photons of light or heat. Therefore, as an electron moves closer to the nucleus, energy is released.
This concept is supported by the emission spectra observed in atoms. When excited electrons in higher energy levels return to lower energy levels, they emit specific wavelengths of light. These emitted wavelengths form characteristic spectra that can be observed experimentally.
In summary, as an electron moves closer to the nucleus, it releases energy because it transitions from a higher energy level to a lower energy level.