Excited Electronic State vs. Ground Electronic State

Attribute	Excited Electronic State	Ground Electronic State
Energy Level	Higher	Lower
Electron Configuration	Unstable	Stable
Electron Spin	Can be parallel or antiparallel	Always parallel
Lifetime	Short	Long

Introduction

Electronic states are crucial in understanding the behavior of atoms and molecules. Two important electronic states are the excited electronic state and the ground electronic state. These states play a significant role in determining the properties and reactivity of molecules. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the excited electronic state and the ground electronic state.

Excited Electronic State

The excited electronic state is a state in which an electron in an atom or molecule has absorbed energy and moved to a higher energy level. This state is temporary and unstable, as the electron will eventually return to its ground state by emitting the absorbed energy in the form of light. In the excited electronic state, the electron is farther from the nucleus, leading to a larger atomic or molecular radius. This state is characterized by higher energy levels and increased reactivity compared to the ground state.

• Temporary and unstable
• Electron is farther from the nucleus
• Higher energy levels
• Increased reactivity

Ground Electronic State

The ground electronic state is the lowest energy state of an atom or molecule, where all electrons are in their lowest possible energy levels. In this state, electrons are closer to the nucleus, resulting in a smaller atomic or molecular radius. The ground state is the most stable electronic state of an atom or molecule, as it represents the energy minimum. Molecules in the ground state exhibit their typical chemical behavior and properties.

• Lowest energy state
• Electrons are closer to the nucleus
• Smaller atomic or molecular radius
• Most stable state

Comparison

When comparing the excited electronic state and the ground electronic state, several key differences can be observed. One of the main differences is the energy level of the electron. In the excited state, the electron is at a higher energy level, while in the ground state, the electron is at the lowest energy level. This difference in energy levels leads to variations in the reactivity and stability of molecules in these states.

Another significant difference is the distance of the electron from the nucleus. In the excited state, the electron is farther from the nucleus, resulting in a larger atomic or molecular radius. On the other hand, in the ground state, the electron is closer to the nucleus, leading to a smaller atomic or molecular radius. This difference in distance affects the overall size and shape of the molecule.

Furthermore, the reactivity of molecules in the excited state is higher compared to molecules in the ground state. This is due to the higher energy levels of electrons in the excited state, which make them more prone to participate in chemical reactions. Molecules in the ground state, being in their most stable configuration, exhibit typical chemical behavior and properties without the influence of external energy.

Overall, the excited electronic state and the ground electronic state represent two distinct energy levels of atoms and molecules, each with its own set of characteristics and properties. Understanding the differences between these states is essential in predicting the behavior and reactivity of molecules in various chemical processes.