Excited states

Excited states are conditions where atoms or molecules have absorbed energy, causing their electrons to move to higher energy levels than their normal, stable state. This state is temporary; eventually, the electrons release the stored energy and return to their lower, more stable levels, often emitting light or other energy in the process. Excited states are fundamental in phenomena like fluorescence, phosphorescence, and various chemical reactions, and they play a crucial role in technologies such as lasers and solar cells. Essentially, they represent a higher-energy configuration that atoms or molecules can adopt temporarily when energized.