Stable atoms have__ energy states.
a. higher
b. lower

Stable atoms have lower energy states. Lower energy states are favored because they correspond to a more stable arrangement of electrons around the nucleus, typically filled electron shells that minimize the potential energy within the atom.

In terms of real-world applications, this concept is crucial in explaining chemical bonding. Atoms tend to bond with others to achieve stable electron configurations, such as the octet rule, where they seek to have eight electrons in their outer shell, leading to the formation of molecules we encounter daily!