Which of the following statements is true about energy quantization at the atomic level?

• A. Energy quantization only applies to molecules, not atoms.
• B. Electrons in atoms can have any energy value within a continuous range.
• C. Atoms emit energy continuously as electrons move between energy levels.
• D. Electrons in atoms can only occupy specific, discrete energy levels.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of energy quantization: At the atomic level, electrons do not have arbitrary energy values but can only exist in specific, discrete energy levels or states.
2. Recall that energy quantization means energy is 'quantized' or comes in fixed amounts, rather than a continuous range of values.
3. Recognize that when electrons move between these discrete energy levels, atoms emit or absorb energy in specific quanta (packets), not continuously.
4. Eliminate incorrect statements: Energy quantization applies to atoms as well as molecules; electrons cannot have any energy value within a continuous range; and atoms do not emit energy continuously but in discrete amounts.
5. Conclude that the true statement is: Electrons in atoms can only occupy specific, discrete energy levels, reflecting the fundamental principle of quantized energy states in atomic structure.