Why must energy levels of electrons be discrete?

[schnappy]

Hi,
So I've seen this question crop up everywhere... my teachers' answer is confusing and unintuitive, I've read a few odd ways that don't sound right.

So, I want to know what you guys think so I can put down a model answer on my reference sheet (cheat sheet sounds bad)

kgo,
Thanks

[m@tty]

It's based around the idea of a standing wave and that if the length of the electron's path is not a multiple of its wavelength there will be 'destructive interference' with itself and hence is not sustainable. Therefore there are discrete energy levels of electrons where the path length is able to sustain orbit.

Its better if you create your own model answer for your cheat sheet, so you can easily relate it to the specific questions asked.

[Whatlol]

I like saying that the circumference of the electrons orbit must be a whole number of the electrons de brogile wavelengths, otherwise a standing wave may not established. (then proceed to say these represent specific/ discrete energy levels)