# Explain what happens to the electrons inside an atom when the atom absorbs electromagnetic radiation, and what is observed when those electrons subsequently lose energy.

> AQA A-Level Physics (7408) — 3.2.2 EM Radiation and Quantum Phenomena · Explain · 5 marks

> Atoms can absorb electromagnetic radiation and later release it. This process produces observable evidence about the structure of atoms.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Electrons absorb a photon (of radiation) / electrons gain energy from the absorbed radiation
2. The electron moves to a higher energy level (is excited to a higher energy level)
3. The electron then falls back down to a lower energy level (returns to a lower / original energy level)
4. A photon is emitted when the electron drops to a lower energy level
5. Only specific frequencies (wavelengths) of light are emitted, producing a line emission spectrum

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA A-Level Physics (7408)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
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