Exam-style question
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Explain the key difference between excitation and ionisation, and provide an example of when each occurs.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- The key difference between excitation and ionisation is that excitation involves an electron moving to a higher energy level within the atom, while ionisation involves an electron being completely removed from the atom.
- Excitation occurs when an atom absorbs a photon with energy less than the ionisation energy, while ionisation occurs when an atom absorbs a photon with energy equal to or greater than the ionisation energy.
Explanation
Why this works
This answer effectively defines both processes, identifies the critical difference regarding energy levels, and explains the conditions under which each occurs. This understanding is essential for students studying atomic interactions and energy transfer.
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