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  Shells and Energy Levels

So now we have established that the atom has a nucleus (center) and orbiting electrons. Before we go any further, we need to learn about an important property of the electron. The electron always strives to be energy efficient. This means that it will try to keep its energy/speed as low as possible.

 

This principle of keeping energy to a minimum is very common in nature. If I take myself as an example, I would rather sit home in front of my TV (keeping the kinetic energy to a minimum) than be out jogging around the neighborhood (high kinetic energy).

   
 
 

 

      
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