Quantum Theory

Energy level

A region around the nucleus in which the electrons exist

Orbit

Fixed path around the nucleus which contains electrons of certain energy

Orbital

A region in an atom where an electron is most likely to be found

Ground state

The lowest energy state of an atom or other particle.

Excited State

any quantum state of the system that has a higher energy than the ground state

Wavelength (lambda)

The distance between 2 adjacent crests in a wave (meters)

Frequency

The amount of waves that pass a point through a unit of time.

Continuous spectrum

Having no gaps throughout its wavelength range

Bright Line Spectrum

A characteristic set of spectral lines given off by an excited atom.

Quantum Number

The set of numbers used to describe the position and energy of the electron in an atom

Sublevel

describes the specific energy and shape of orbitals where electrons are located

Electron Spin

+1/2, -1/2

Quantum (wave) mechanical model

describes motion of subatomic particles and atoms as waves that lose energy as quanta

Electron configuration

the arrangement of electrons in orbitals around an atomic nucleus

Valence Electrons

electrons in the outer most electron shell

Electromagnetic radiation

Radiation that has both electric and magnetic fields and travels in waves

Lewis Structure

Was created to show an easy way of chemical bonding

Wave equation

a mathematical description of the wave-like properties of electrons,

Spectrum

the characteristic wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation that is emitted or absorbed by an object or substance, atom, or molecule