an electron in a hydrogen atom moves from level 1 to level 4. the electron then drops from level 4 to level…

Explanation:

Step1: Understand electron - level transitions

When an electron moves from a lower energy level (level 1) to a higher energy level (level 4) in a hydrogen atom, it absorbs energy. The energy difference between level 1 and level 4 is $\Delta E_{1 - 4}=E_4 - E_1$.

Step2: Analyze the second transition

When the electron drops from a higher energy level (level 4) to a lower energy level (level 2), it releases energy. The energy difference between level 4 and level 2 is $\Delta E_{4 - 2}=E_4 - E_2$.

Step3: Compare the energy differences

Since $E_1<E_2$, we have $E_4 - E_1>E_4 - E_2$. So the energy absorbed in the first move (from level 1 to level 4) is greater than the energy released in the second move (from level 4 to level 2).

Answer:

The energy absorbed in the first move is greater than the energy released in the second move.