Chapter 13, Problem 12RQ

Summary Introduction

To review:

The processes by which excited molecules return to the ground; also identify the ones that play an important role in photosynthesis.

Introduction:

The cells of plants contain chromophores. These are electrons or atoms capable of absorbing light energy. Once energy is absorbed, a specific wavelength of light is transmitted from/reflected by them. This mechanism happens as the electrons that absorb energy get excited and move to higher orbitals. When these excited electrons move back to the ground state orbitals, they lose energy in various forms, resulting in transmission, reflection, or radiation.