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SIMULATION in Atomic Theory. Last updated October 30, 2018.

Simulation

Summary

In this simulation, students will explore what happens when electrons within a generic atom are excited from their ground state. They will see that when an electron relaxes from an excited state to its ground state, energy is released in the form of electromagnetic radiation. This is a qualitative investigation, not meant to mimic any particular atom.

Grade Level

High school

Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students should know

  • Conservation of energy.
  • It takes energy to excite an electron, and energy is released when an electron relaxes to its ground state.Energy is quantized.

Chemistry Topics

This lesson supports students’ understanding of

  • Atomic theory
  • Atomic structure
  • Conservation of energy
  • Exciting electrons
  • Ground state electrons

Time

Teacher Preparation: 10 minutes

Lesson: 1 class period

Materials

  • Computer with internet access

Safety

No specific safety concerns need to be addressed for this activity

Teacher Notes

  • Student can explore the simulation with the guided help of the lesson, or you can use it as a demonstration tool for explaining atomic theory related to exciting electrons from their ground state.
  • This could be used either as an introduction or follow up activity to flame tests.

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