Pre-AP Chemistry: Topic 2 – Atomic Structure: Worksheet #5

Photoelectron Spectroscopy

1. What determines the position and the height (intensity) of each peak in a
photoelectron spectrum? 
 Explain.

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2. Why is the distance of the energy level from the nucleus important when trying to
predict the corresponding peak position in the photoelectron spectrum? 


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3. Based on the information provided below, draw a photoelectron spectrum for

argon. Indicate the relative intensities and positions of all peaks.

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4. Identify the element in the photoelectron spectrum shown below. Briefly explain
your reasoning with the use of electron configuration.
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5. Identify if either of the following statements is correct. Then, briefly explain your
reasoning for each one:
2+
a) The photoelectron spectrum of Mg is expected to be identical to the
photoelectron spectrum of Ne. 


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b) The photoelectron spectrum of 35Cl is identical to the photoelectron spectrum of

37Cl.

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6. Is it possible to deduce the electron configuration for an atom from its
photoelectron spectrum? If so, explain how. If not, explain why not.

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7. Explain why the peak at 0.42 MJ/mol in the K photoelectron spectrum is identified
as being in the 4th energy level?

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8. Nitrogen shows 3 peaks in its photoelectron spectrum. These 3 peaks correspond

to the binding energies of nitrogen’s 1s, 2s and 2p electrons. The relative heights of
the 1s, 2s, and 2p peaks in the PES spectrum of nitrogen will be:

a. 1,1,1 b. 1,1,2 c. 2,2,3 d. 2,2,5

9. Select 3 atoms and 2 ions of your choice. First identify each chemical species,
then write the full electron configuration, shorthand electron configuration and
include a sketch of your predicted photoelectron spectrum for each one. Be sure to
remember to include relative height for your peaks. Take note that no numerical
values on required on your axis for this question.
Identity of Electron Photoelectron Spectra Sketches
chemical Configuration
species (Conventional and
Shorthand)