IB Chemistry Sub-topic S1.3 Definitions

This page contains our IB Chemistry definitions for sub-topic S1.3. By learning each one of these definitions, you will fully cover the content for IB Chemistry 'Electron configurations'.
continuous spectrum

A spectrum of electromagnetic radiation that shows all possible wavelengths

convergence

An emission spectrum's feature where lines are closer together at higher wavelengths

electromagnetic radiation

Form of energy that travels as a wave

electron configuration

An expression describing the filled orbitals

emission spectrum

A line spectrum describing the photons an atom emits when electrons drop energy levels and release energy

line spectrum

A spectrum of electromagnetic radiation that shows only particular wavelengths

orbital

A region of space where there is a high probability of finding an electron

the Balmer series

The emission series that result from an electron dropping down to the second energy level, emitting visible light

the Lyman series

The emission series that result from an electron dropping down to the first energy level, emitting ultraviolet light

visible light

the part of the electromagnetic spectrum the human eye can see. contains wavelengths from 400nm to 700nm

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