Key Stage 5
Meaning
Excitation is the process in which an atom absorbs energy without ionising, causing an electron to move from a lower to a higher energy level.
About Excitation
- Excitation occurs when an electron absorbs a photon or energy from a collision and jumps to a higher energy level.
- The atom remains neutral as the electron is not removed from the atom.
- The excited state is usually unstable, and the electron will soon return to a lower energy level, emitting energy in the form of a photon.
- Excitation is important in understanding the the absorption and emission spectra of atoms and the operation of LASERs.
Examples
- Neon signs glow due to the excitation of Neon atoms and subsequent emission of light.
- Fluorescent lamps work by exciting Mercury vapor, which then emits ultraviolet light that causes the phosphor coating to glow.