triplet state

A triplet state is a condition in a molecule where two electrons have the same spin direction, making the molecule have a higher energy level than its normal, or singlet, state. Electrons normally pair up with opposite spins, but in the triplet state, both spins align parallel. This state occurs when the molecule absorbs energy, such as light, and can influence behaviors like phosphorescence (glowing after the light is gone). The triplet state is generally longer-lived than other excited states, affecting how molecules interact with light and various chemical processes.