Exam-style question
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Explain how electron collisions transfer discrete amounts of energy to atoms.
Model answer
What a good answer should say
- When an electron collides with an atom, it can transfer energy to the atom in discrete amounts, corresponding to the energy levels of the atom.
- If the energy transferred is equal to the difference between two energy levels, the electron in the atom can be excited to a higher energy level.
Explanation
Why this works
This answer demonstrates an understanding of the concept of energy transfer during electron collisions, linking it to atomic energy levels. It tests the student's ability to explain a fundamental principle of atomic physics.
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