Photon absorption

Photon absorption is the process where an atom or molecule absorbs a photon, which is a particle of light. When this happens, the energy from the photon can excite the atom, moving an electron to a higher energy level, or ionize it, completely removing the electron. In excitation, the atom can return to its original state, often releasing energy as light. In ionization, the atom is transformed into a charged particle, or ion, which can have significant chemical effects. This process is fundamental in fields like chemistry and physics, helping to explain phenomena such as color and chemical reactions.