Explain a paragraph how the colors observed in the flame tests are produced (on an atomic level)

Question

1. Written in complete sentences
2. Describe the original state of the atom
3. Describe how location of the electron changes when exposed to energy
4. Describe what occurs after the electron is no longer energized
5. Uses the following terms - Ground state, excited state, energy, realized, absorption, wavelength, electromagnetic waves

Answer 1

When an electron is in it's ground state or original state, it will be located on the specific energy level that associated with that electron. For example, electrons in the outer shell of Neon will be in the 2nd energy level/orbital.

When energy is absorbed by that atom, electrons will go into an excited state, jumping energy levels to a higher state, i.e. Neon's outer electrons will jump from the 2nd to the 3rd energy level.

When that energy is released, it will produce a color. The wavelength of color will change depending on the electromagnetic wavelength associated with that amount of energy released, which is why Potassium produces a different color than Lithium when burned.