The molecular transitions, from the highest magnitude in energy to the lowest, are
A) electronic, rotational, and vibrational.
B) electronic, vibrational, and rotational.
C) vibrational, electronic, and rotational.
D) rotational, vibrational, and electronic.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Electronic transitions involve moving electrons between different molecular orbitals, and these require the most energy. Vibrational transitions involve changes in the vibration of the molecule's bonds and require less energy than electronic transitions. Rotational transitions, which involve changes in the rotation of the molecule, require the least amount of energy.

The Molecular Transitions, from the Highest Magnitude in Energy to the Lowest