Electron Energy Levels and Atomic Spectra

Start with electron energy levels

Begin with the note on energy levels, excitation and fluorescence. It introduces the ground state and describes excitation as an electron gaining the energy needed to move to a higher level. Then look at the mind map on electron shells and atomic spectra. It connects shells with energy levels and shows that shells farther from the nucleus have greater energy.

Use the note and map together: read the explanation first, then use the map to organize the ideas. Check that you can explain the relationship between shells and energy levels in your own words.

Connect energy levels and spectra

The flashcards on the structure of the atom cover how line emission spectra are produced, their features and what they suggest about discrete energy levels. The Absorption and Emission Spectra mind map looks at fixed energy levels in hydrogen atoms. Study the map alongside the flashcards, then use the cards to practice recalling the main ideas without looking at the map.

The page also lists an Energy Levels quiz. After studying the note and map, take it as a way to practice. Return to the resources when you want to review an idea.

Practice the photoelectric effect

The Electron: Photoelectric Effect note describes electrons being emitted from a metal surface when electromagnetic radiation hits it. A flashcard deck on the same topic covers terms including photon, work function and threshold frequency.

The Electron: Quiz asks about the mass of an electron, units used for electron energy and other electron-related topics. Try it after reading the note and studying the cards. As a section of Atomic Structure in Physics, this page brings these resources together for focused study. Choose a map, note or quiz to explore next.