Electron Arrangements
Physics: AQA GCSE Higher, topic 4.1.6
Electron Arrangements
Electrons are arranged in shells around a nucleus. Each shell has a different energy level. When an atom absorbs or emits electromagnetic radiation, its electron arrangements can change.

Absorb radiation
- When atoms absorb electromagnetic radiation, electrons move to a higher energy level further away from the nucleus.

Emit radiation
- When atoms emit electromagnetic radiation, electrons can drop to a lower energy level, closer to the nucleus.
Test yourself on Electron Arrangements
What happens when atoms absorb electromagnetic radiation?
What can be emitted by atoms to change the electron arrangement in an atom?