Multiple Choice
Which term describes the smallest packet of electromagnetic energy that can be absorbed or emitted?
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9. Quantum Mechanics
The Energy of Light
Multiple Choice
When ultraviolet (UV) light strikes ozone (O_3) molecules in the atmosphere, what is the primary effect?
A
The ozone molecules reflect the UV light without any chemical change.
B
The ozone molecules absorb the UV light and undergo decomposition into O_2 and O.
C
The ozone molecules are unaffected by UV light and remain stable.
D
The ozone molecules emit visible light after absorbing the UV light.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the nature of ozone (O_3) in the atmosphere and its interaction with ultraviolet (UV) light. Ozone plays a crucial role in absorbing harmful UV radiation from the sun.
Recall that when ozone absorbs UV light, it gains energy that can break chemical bonds within the molecule, leading to a chemical reaction rather than just reflecting or remaining unchanged.
Recognize that the absorption of UV light by ozone causes it to decompose into molecular oxygen (O_2) and a single oxygen atom (O). This is a photodissociation process.
Note that this decomposition is important because the free oxygen atom (O) can react with other ozone molecules or oxygen molecules, contributing to the ozone-oxygen cycle that protects the Earth from UV radiation.
Conclude that the primary effect of UV light striking ozone molecules is absorption followed by chemical decomposition into O_2 and O, rather than reflection, stability, or emission of visible light.
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