Electron energy levels Flashcards
1
Q
What happens to unstable isotopes
A
- Unstable isotopes undergo radioactive decay in which they turn into other elements
- They can emit alpha, beta or gamma radiation
2
Q
What are energy levels in an atom
A
- Each atom consists of a nucleus which is surrounded by electron shells
- These electron shells are different energy levels
- As you get away from the nucleus, the energy level of each shell increases
3
Q
How does an electron change energy levels
A
- Sometimes, an electron gains enough energy via electromagnetic radioation that it can move up an energy level (shell)
- When this happens, the electron has become “excited”
- However, the electron usually falls back down and emits the enery back as electromagnetic radiation
4
Q
What is ionisation (radiation)
A
- Sometimes, the outer shell electron gains eneough energy to leave the atom entirely
- The atom becomes a positive ion
5
Q
What is ionisation radiation
A
- Radiaion that is able to knock electrons off atoms