Chemistry 1113 - Electromagnetic Radiation and Atomic Structure

These flashcards cover important vocabulary related to electromagnetic radiation, atomic structure, and behavior of electrons in chemistry.

Frequency (v)

The number of waves that pass a given point in a specific time, often measured in Hertz (Hz).

Wavelength (λ)

The distance between consecutive peaks of a wave, usually measured in meters or nanometers.

Energy (E)

The capacity to do work, related to the frequency and wavelength of electromagnetic radiation by the equations E = hv and E = hc/λ.

Photon

A quantum of electromagnetic radiation, which carries energy proportional to its frequency.

Threshold frequency (Φ)

The minimum frequency of light required to eject an electron from a material.

Bohr model

A model of the atom that depicts electrons in defined orbits around the nucleus, with energy levels designated by quantum numbers.

Orbital diagram

A visual representation of the distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals.

Valence shell

The outermost shell of an atom, which contains the valence electrons that are involved in chemical bonding.

D electrons

Electrons in the d subshell of an atom that can participate in bonding and determine various chemical properties.

Excitation

The process in which an electron absorbs energy and moves from a lower energy state to a higher energy state.

Emission

The release of energy in the form of light when an electron falls from a higher energy state to a lower energy state.