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Suppose you have an electron in the $\ce{2s}$ subshell of an atom. If energy is given to it, does it simply jump to the next energy level (into the $\ce{3s}$ subshell), or does it move into $\ce{2p}$?

Shane
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    Maybe not duplicate but definitely related: https://chemistry.stackexchange.com/questions/166687/fundamental-doubts-about-energy-levels-vs-shells-vs-subshells-vs-orbitals – AVS Dec 26 '22 at 08:47
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    Transitions must happen with a change in the l quantum number to conserve momentum. the 2s to 3s transition does not happen. The lowest is 2s to 2p actually a doublet. The 2p state can be excited to 3s. – jimchmst Dec 27 '22 at 00:49

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Depends on the amount of energy you're supplying.

For example, if you supply light of different wavelengths, the amount of energy each holds is different. Your electron will jump to a subshell corresponding to that energy difference.

Zeit Shpaga
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  • Transitions also happen thermally. There are vibrational and rotational changes with partial excitation, the Raman effect. – jimchmst Dec 27 '22 at 00:11