Ranking Energy Level Distances in Quantum Mechanics

Rank from largest to smallest distances. First exited state Second exited state Third exited state Ground state

In quantum mechanics, the distances between energy levels in an atom can vary depending on the specific atom and the context. However, generally speaking, the ranking from largest to smallest distances between energy levels is as follows:

1. First excited state - This is typically the highest energy level after the ground state, and the distance to this level from the ground state is usually the largest.
2. Second excited state - This state is higher than the first excited state, but the energy difference (and thus the distance) to the ground state is usually smaller than that of the first excited state.
3. Third excited state - This state is higher than the second excited state, and the distance to the ground state is typically smaller than that of the first and second excited states.
4. Ground state - This is the lowest energy level, and there is no distance to measure from itself.

So, the ranking from largest to smallest distances is:

1. First excited state
2. Second excited state
3. Third excited state
4. Ground state

Keep in mind that the actual distances can vary based on the specific atom and its electronic configuration.