Electron Shells

Question 1

What can electron shells also be called?

Answer 1

Energy levels

Question 2

Which electron shell has the lowest energy level?

Answer 2

The innermost shell

Question 3

Which electron shell has the highest energy level?

Answer 3

The outermost shell

Question 4

Why are the energy levels of the electron shells the way it is?

Answer 4

Electrons closest to the nucleus are highly attracted to the positively charged nucleus. Electrons further out from the nucleus are not as attracted as they are further away from the nucleus. It is easier for the electrons to ‘jump’ up or down energy levels, absorbing or releasing energy.