The shell with the highest energy is the one farthest from the nucleus; therefore, the N shell has the highest energy of the shells listed in order (K, L, M, N).
Here's why:
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Energy Levels: In an atom, electrons occupy specific energy levels or shells around the nucleus. These shells are designated as K, L, M, N, and so on, moving outwards from the nucleus.
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Distance from the Nucleus: The farther a shell is from the nucleus, the higher its energy level. This is because electrons in outer shells have to overcome a greater electrostatic attraction from the positively charged nucleus to exist at that distance.
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Quantization of Energy: Electrons can only exist in these specific energy levels. When an electron moves from a lower energy level (closer to the nucleus) to a higher energy level (farther from the nucleus), it absorbs energy. Conversely, when an electron moves from a higher energy level to a lower energy level, it emits energy.
Therefore, since the N shell is the fourth shell away from the nucleus (following K, L, and M), it possesses the highest energy compared to the K, L, and M shells.
