Question

During the formation of the aurora borealis, the electrons in an atom experience a change in energy levels. Which statement about this change is accurate? (1 point)
First, the electron absorbs energy to move to a lower energy level.
First, the electron absorbs energy to move to a higher energy level.
First, the electron releases energy to move to a lower energy level.
• First, the electron releases energy to move to a higher energy level.

Answer 1

First, the electron absorbs energy to move to a higher energy level.

Explanation: energetic particles collide with atmospheric atoms, exciting their electrons to higher energy levels (absorb energy); when those electrons fall back to lower levels they emit the visible light of the aurora.