In the Bohr model, what does the arrow represent when an electron jumps from energy level 3 to energy level 1?

• A. The absorption of a photon as the electron gains energy
• B. The emission of a photon as the electron moves to a lower energy state
• C. The nucleus gaining energy from the electron
• D. The electron remaining in its current energy level

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that in the Bohr model, electrons occupy specific energy levels or orbits around the nucleus, each with a defined energy value.
2. Recognize that when an electron moves from a higher energy level (n=3) to a lower energy level (n=1), it loses energy because lower energy levels are closer to the nucleus and more stable.
3. Know that the energy lost by the electron during this transition is released in the form of a photon, which is a particle of light carrying a specific amount of energy equal to the difference between the two energy levels.
4. Interpret the arrow pointing from energy level 3 to energy level 1 as representing the emission of this photon, indicating the electron is moving to a lower energy state and releasing energy.
5. Conclude that the arrow does not represent absorption (which would occur if the electron moved to a higher energy level), nor does it represent the nucleus gaining energy or the electron staying in the same level.