[′məl·tə‚pōl tran′zish·ən] (physics) A transition between two energy states of an atom or nucleus in which a quantum of multipole radiation is emitted or absorbed.

What is electromagnetic transition?

Electromagnetic Transitions. The radiation can be due to. An oscillating charge distribution – Electric radiation. An oscillating current distribution – Magnetic radiation.

What is meant by multipole radiation?

Multipole radiation is a theoretical framework for the description of electromagnetic or gravitational radiation from time-dependent distributions of distant sources. ... Multipole analysis offers a way to separate the radiation into moments of increasing complexity.