The distribution of electrons in an atom is governed by quantum mechanics and is described by the electron cloud or orbital model. In this model, electrons occupy specific energy levels or orbitals around the nucleus of an atom.
When an electron absorbs energy, it can move to a higher energy level or orbital. This is often the case when electrons are excited by external energy sources like heat, light, or electricity. In an excited state, electrons possess more energy than they do in their ground state.
The energy levels or orbitals in an atom are arranged in a way that the inner orbitals are lower in energy and closer to the nucleus, while the outer orbitals are higher in energy and farther from the nucleus. The specific arrangement of orbitals is determined by the atomic structure and the principles of quantum mechanics.
When an electron absorbs energy and moves to a higher energy level, it moves farther from the nucleus. This occurs because higher energy levels are located at greater distances from the nucleus. The energy difference between the levels determines how far the electron moves.
It's important to note that the concept of electrons "moving" in a classical sense is not entirely accurate. Electrons exist in a state of wave-particle duality and their behavior is described by wavefunctions and probability distributions. The electron cloud model provides a way to visualize the probability of finding an electron in a particular region around the nucleus. The probability distribution becomes more spread out or diffuse as the energy level increases, indicating that the electron is more likely to be found farther from the nucleus.
In summary, more excited electrons move farther from the nucleus because they occupy higher energy levels or orbitals, which are located at greater distances from the nucleus.