Excited state

Pronunciation: /ɪkˈsaɪtəd ˈsteɪt/

Excited state (noun)

  1. A condition of an atom or particle with more energy than its usual lowest level.
  2. A short-lived state reached after energy is added, before returning to a lower level.

Examples

  • The electron is in a higher energy level after the energy input.
  • A higher energy level can be reached when the system absorbs energy.