Which statement about the relative potential energy of electrons in an atom is correct?

• A. Electrons in the nucleus have the highest potential energy.
• B. Electrons in higher energy levels (farther from the nucleus) have greater potential energy than those in lower energy levels.
• C. All electrons in an atom have the same potential energy regardless of their energy level.
• D. Electrons in lower energy levels (closer to the nucleus) have greater potential energy than those in higher energy levels.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that potential energy in the context of electrons in an atom relates to their position relative to the nucleus and the electrostatic forces acting on them.
2. Recall that electrons are negatively charged and the nucleus is positively charged, so electrons closer to the nucleus are more strongly attracted and thus have lower potential energy.
3. Recognize that electrons farther from the nucleus are less tightly bound and have higher potential energy because work must be done to move them away from the nucleus.
4. Compare the energy levels: electrons in higher energy levels (farther from the nucleus) have greater potential energy than those in lower energy levels (closer to the nucleus).
5. Conclude that the correct statement is that electrons in higher energy levels have greater potential energy than those in lower energy levels.