Traveling Electrons: Time to Jump Orbits?

In summary, there is no definite answer to how long it takes for an electron to travel from a lower orbit to a higher one. This is because an electron's position cannot be accurately measured and it is associated with a quantum energy state. Therefore, the time it takes for an electron to move to a higher energy level is instantaneous and does not depend on the number of energy levels it jumps.
  • #1
Burnsys
66
0
How many time take to the electron to "Travel" from a lower orbit to a higher one? does it take the same time to travel to the next energy lever or to jump 3 or 4 when hitted by a more energetic photon??
Or it only takes a Planck time since it was hit by the photon?
 
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  • #2
I don't think one can visualise this in terms of how long it takes to jump an energy level. An electron can never be determined to be in one place with any degree of accuracy, and thus we can't measure how long it takes to get to another place. This is of course if you think it physically changes location to raise its energy. An electron has accociated with it a quantum energy state that defines crudely where it would be in an atom say, So raising its energy would instantly put it in a higher state if the stimulant was sufficient. So getting from the ground state to the first state, or from ground to the fourth state would take the same time. Of course, this in itself is not a diffinitive answer, but the principle of associating an exact position to an electron is pointless.
 
  • #3
I know, when i made the post i was thinking in the electron as a wave, no as a particle.
 

FAQ: Traveling Electrons: Time to Jump Orbits?

What are traveling electrons?

Traveling electrons are electrons that move from one atom to another. They are responsible for the flow of electric current in conductors.

What is the significance of jumping orbits for traveling electrons?

Jumping orbits is the process by which electrons move from one energy level to another in an atom. This is significant because it allows electrons to gain or lose energy, which is essential for various chemical reactions and the functioning of electronic devices.

How do traveling electrons jump orbits?

Traveling electrons jump orbits by absorbing or emitting energy in the form of photons. This energy change causes the electron to move to a higher or lower energy level, respectively.

What determines the time it takes for an electron to jump orbits?

The time it takes for an electron to jump orbits is determined by the energy difference between the two levels and the strength of the electric field surrounding the atom. The stronger the field, the faster the electron will jump orbits.

Are there any real-life applications of traveling electrons and their jumping orbits?

Yes, there are many real-life applications of traveling electrons and their jumping orbits. These include the functioning of electronic devices such as computers and smartphones, as well as various chemical reactions in industries such as pharmaceuticals and energy production.

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