Excitation

Key Stage 5

Meaning

Excitation is the process in which an atom absorbs energy without ionizing, 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 emission spectra of elements 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.