Chemistry

Problem

The ionization energy of a certain atom is

5.12\,\text{eV}

above the ground state. The atom can also emit a

3.40\,\text{eV}

photon when it transitions from an excited state

X

to the ground state. If an atom is first prepared in state

X

, what minimum photon energy is required to ionize it? a)

5.12\,\text{eV}

3.40\,\text{eV}

1.72\,\text{eV}

8.52\,\text{eV}