Chemistry Class: Atomic Theory and Electron Behavior

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to atomic theory, atomic structure, and electron behavior as discussed in chemistry class.

Atomic Theory

The theory that matter is composed of discrete units called atoms, which are the basic building blocks of matter.

Emission Spectrum

A spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation emitted by a source, typically displayed as discrete lines corresponding to the wavelengths of light emitted by electrons transitioning between energy levels.

Balmer Series

A series of lines in the emission spectrum of hydrogen that appear in the visible range, resulting from transitions of electrons from higher energy levels down to n=2.

Rydberg Constant

A constant used in the Rydberg formula to predict the wavelengths of spectral lines in many chemical elements.

Photon

A particle representing a quantum of light or electromagnetic radiation; it has particle-like properties and energy.

Wave-Particle Duality

The concept in quantum mechanics that every particle or quantum entity exhibits both wave and particle properties.

Standing Wave

A wave that remains in a constant position and does not travel through space, characterized by nodes where there is no movement.

Schrodinger's Equation

A fundamental equation in quantum mechanics that describes how the quantum state of a physical system changes over time.

Quantum Numbers

Sets of numerical values that describe the properties of atomic orbitals and the properties of electrons in those orbitals.

Constructive Interference

The phenomenon that occurs when two waves overlap and combine to make a wave with a larger amplitude.

Destructive Interference

The phenomenon that occurs when two waves overlap and cancel each other out, resulting in a lower amplitude or no wave.