De-excitation mechanisms

De-excitation mechanisms refer to the ways an atom or nucleus releases excess energy after being energized. When particles or energy excite an atom, it moves to a higher energy state. The atom then returns to a lower energy level by emitting energy as light (photons) or other particles. The main mechanisms include radiative de-excitation (emitting photons like visible light or X-rays), non-radiative processes (where energy is transferred to other particles or converted into heat), and processes like internal conversion. These mechanisms restore the atom or nucleus to a stable state, releasing the stored energy safely.