JEE Main 1984 Chemistry question on Atomic Structure
Which electronic level would allow the hydrogen atom to absorb a photon but not to emit a photon?
A.
(a) 3s
B.
(b) 2p
C.
(c) 2s
D.
(d) 1s
Show answer and solution
Correct option: D
Solution
The 1s level is the ground state of hydrogen — the lowest possible energy level. From here, the atom can absorb a photon to jump to a higher level, but there is no lower level available to transition down to, so it cannot emit a photon. Any other level (2s, 2p, 3s) lies above the ground state and can release energy by emitting a photon while falling to a lower level.
[1984]
Practise Atomic Structure the way it is asked
A timed set of real JEE Main Atomic Structure questions, graded as the exam grades. No sign-up.
