Green fluorescent protein (GFP), is commonly used in imaging studies due to its fluorescent properties. It absorbs ultraviolet light and emits green light. Which of the following best describes what happens to the excitable electrons in GFP immediately after exposure to 395 nm wavelength light?
A. electrons jump up an energy level after absorbing a photon of light
B. their spin coefficient flips
C. they move to a smaller radius orbital
D. electrons move down an energy level, emitting a photon of light
Click for Explanation
A is correct. 395 nm is in the ultraviolet spectrum for light. When GFP is exposed to UV light, electrons absorb photons and are excited to a higher energy level, moving further away from the nucleus. The electrons will then move down in energy, emitting a photon of light. Since this question is asking for the immediate effect, choice A is correct.
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