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
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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
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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
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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
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5
Q

What is ionisation radiation

A
  • Radiaion that is able to knock electrons off atoms
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