Question

Which change occurs when an atom in an excited

state returns to the ground state?
(1) Energy is emitted.
(2) Energy is absorbed.
(3) The number of electrons decreases.
(4) The number of electrons increases.

Answer 1

The change that occurs when an atom in an excited state returns to the ground state is that (1) energy is emitted.
It is emitted by photons in the form of light, or in some cases, heat.

Answer 2

Answer: The correct option is (1).

Step-by-step explanation:

Whenever an atom in an excited state returns back to its ground state the energy is emitted out in the form of the radiation and the value of energy emitted can be determined by using the expression:

`E=(hc)/(\lambda )`

Where E = Energy of the radiation in joules

h = Planck's constant =
`6.63* 10^(-34) J.s`

`\lambda`= Wavelength of the radiation in meters.