Atomic Energy Levels: Discrete vs Continuous

In summary, atomic energy levels are specific energy states that electrons can occupy within an atom. These levels are quantized, meaning they can only have certain discrete values. The difference between discrete and continuous energy levels is that discrete levels have distinct values, while continuous levels can have any value within a range. These energy levels are determined through spectroscopy, which involves analyzing the wavelengths of light emitted or absorbed by an atom. The existence of discrete energy levels in atomic structure explains the stability of atoms and why they do not collapse or emit continuous energy. These levels can change through various processes and have practical applications in areas such as lasers and medical imaging.
  • #1
crazy777
1
0
Why in atom, ther r discrete energy level & not continous?
and energy emitted, from atom is in quata only?please give me exat answer or a related websites.
thanx in advance:redface:
 
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  • #2
Exact answer: because the eigenvalue spectrum of the Hamiltonian for a Hydrogen-like atom is discrete. To understand this you need to learn basic quantum mechanics. Here is a summary of the exact solution to the hydrogen atom:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydrogen-like_atom
 
  • #3


The concept of atomic energy levels refers to the specific energies that an electron can have in an atom. These energy levels are determined by the electron's distance from the nucleus and are often represented as discrete values, rather than a continuous range of values. This is due to the nature of the electron's behavior, which is described by quantum mechanics. In this theory, electrons are not considered to be particles moving in a continuous manner, but rather as waves that can only exist at certain discrete energy levels. This means that the energy of an electron in an atom can only take on certain specific values, rather than a continuous range of values.

As for why energy is emitted from an atom in quanta, this is also a consequence of quantum mechanics. When an electron transitions from a higher energy level to a lower one, it releases energy in the form of a photon. The energy of this photon is directly related to the difference in energy between the two levels. This means that the energy emitted is not continuous, but rather in discrete packets or quanta.

For more information on atomic energy levels and the behavior of electrons in atoms, you may find the following websites helpful:

1. Khan Academy - Atomic structure and electron configuration: https://www.khanacademy.org/science...ron-configurations-jay/v/atomic-energy-levels

2. The Physics Classroom - Quantum mechanics and the atom: https://www.physicsclassroom.com/class/modern/Lesson-4/Quantum-Mechanics-and-the-Atom

3. HyperPhysics - Atomic energy levels: http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/atomic/atomeng.html

I hope this helps to clarify the concept of discrete energy levels in atoms and why energy is emitted in quanta.
 

FAQ: Atomic Energy Levels: Discrete vs Continuous

What are atomic energy levels?

Atomic energy levels refer to the specific energy states that an electron can occupy within an atom. These energy states are quantized, meaning they can only have certain discrete values.

What is the difference between discrete and continuous energy levels?

Discrete energy levels refer to specific, quantized energy states that an electron can occupy within an atom. On the other hand, continuous energy levels refer to a range of energies that an electron can occupy within an atom. In other words, discrete energy levels have distinct values, while continuous energy levels can have any value within a range.

How are atomic energy levels determined?

Atomic energy levels are determined through spectroscopy, which involves analyzing the wavelengths of light emitted or absorbed by an atom. Each element has a unique set of energy levels, allowing scientists to identify elements based on their spectral lines.

What is the significance of discrete energy levels in atomic structure?

The existence of discrete energy levels in atomic structure is significant because it explains the stability of atoms. Electrons can only occupy specific energy levels, and they cannot exist in between these levels. This helps to explain why atoms do not collapse or emit continuous energy.

Can atomic energy levels change?

Yes, atomic energy levels can change through processes such as absorption or emission of photons, collisions with other particles, or interactions with external fields. These changes in energy levels can also result in the emission or absorption of light, which is used in many applications, including lasers and medical imaging.

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