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The normal electron configuration of atoms or ions of an element is known as the "ground state". In this most stable energy state, all electrons are in the lowest energy levels available. When atoms or ions in the ground state are heated to high temperatures, some electrons may absorb enough energy to allow them to "jump" to higher energy levels. The element is then said to be in the______________.

User Cristofor
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Answer: Excited state

The normal electron configuration of atoms or ions of an element is known as the "ground state". In this most stable energy state, all electrons are in the lowest energy levels available. When atoms or ions in the ground state are heated to high temperatures, some electrons may absorb enough energy to allow them to "jump" to higher energy levels.

The element is then said to be in the excited state

Step-by-step explanation:

On heating, atoms absorb energy and jump to higher energy levels.

For instance: Carbon with atomic number 6, and electronic configuration of 1s2, 2s2 2p2 at ground state become 1s2, 2s1 2p3 at excited State.

In essence, one of the S-orbital electrons of carbon jumped into the p-orbital all because of heat.

User Rryan
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