Suppose that an atom has exactly two energy levels separated by an energy difference $\Delta \mathrm{E}$. When such atoms are in contact with a reservoir at a temperature $T_{1}$, the ratio of the number of atoms in the higher level to the number in the lower level is $\frac{1}{4}$. If we increase the temperature to $T_{2}$, the numerical value of this ratio
A) increases.
B) decreases.
C) remains the same.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The ratio of the number of atoms in the higher energy level to the number in the lower energy level is given by the Boltzmann distribution, which depends on the temperature and the energy difference between the levels. As the temperature increases, the ratio increases because more atoms have the thermal energy required to reach the higher energy level.

Suppose That an Atom Has Exactly Two Energy Levels Separated ΔE\Delta \mathrm{E}ΔE

Suppose That an Atom Has Exactly Two Energy Levels Separated $\Delta \mathrm{E}$