4.2 Atomic Structure, Isotopes & Electron Shells

Question 1

What are the stages of electrons, shells, and ionisation

Answer 1

Electrons orbit the nucleus at specific energy levels which are also called shells.

The shells get progressively further from the nucleus and increase in energy level.

Electrons can absorb electromagnetic radiation and jump to a higher energy level / shell.

In these cases we say that the electron has become ‘excited’.

Excited electrons can later fall back to a lower energy level, and emit electromagnetic radiation in the process.

Electrons can also absorb enough energy to leave the atom altogether, this is known as ionisation.

Question 2

Some isotopes are _________ and can decay into other elements. Decay involves emitting radiation such as alpha, beta, and __________ radiation.

Answer 2

unstable

gamma