Question

7 An atom of Xenon, atomic number 54, produces more characteristic spectral lines than Helium, atomic number 2, when excited by 6000 volts. Which statement best explains this difference? A Helium is an inert gas and Xenon is not. B Helium has a higher neutron to proton ratio. C Helium has less possible electron transitions. D Helium can be produced by the fusion of Hydrogen.

Answer 1

The correct statement that best explains the difference in the number of characteristic spectral lines produced by Xenon and Helium when excited is:

C Helium has less possible electron transitions.

Xenon, having more electrons due to its higher atomic number, can undergo a greater number of electronic transitions when excited, leading to more spectral lines. On the other hand, Helium has fewer electrons, resulting in fewer possible transitions and thus fewer spectral lines.