Multiple Choice
Which of the following represents the correct orbital diagram for a neutral vanadium atom (atomic number 23)?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
The Electron Configuration
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When an electron moves from a higher energy orbital (state a) to a lower energy orbital (state b), what is most likely to occur?
A
The electron is ejected from the atom.
B
The electron absorbs a photon.
C
The electron's energy increases.
D
The electron emits a photon.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that when an electron moves from a higher energy orbital (state a) to a lower energy orbital (state b), it is transitioning to a more stable, lower energy state.
Recall the principle of energy conservation: the energy lost by the electron must be released in some form.
Recognize that the electron cannot simply disappear or increase its energy when moving to a lower energy state; instead, it releases energy.
Know that the energy released during this transition is emitted as a photon, which is a particle of light with energy equal to the difference between the two energy levels.
Express this energy difference mathematically as $\Delta E = E_a - E_b = h \nu$, where $h$ is Planck's constant and $\nu$ is the frequency of the emitted photon.
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