Spectral lines and energy levels

In summary, the given spectrum shows spectral lines resulting from electron decays in a Hydrogen-like atom. All lines are from an electron decaying from an excited state to the first excited state. Line C has a wavelength of 48.214nm. The energy of a photon corresponding to line D can be calculated using the Rydberg formula, which takes into account the energy levels and transitions of the atom. The graph in the spectrum corresponds to transitions from higher energy levels (n>2) to the first excited state (n=2), allowing for the identification of lines C and D.
  • #1
Pika007
2
0

Homework Statement


In the spectrum depicted bellow (see added picture) are spectral lines which resulted from emissions of a photon due to an electron decaying from a higher to a lower orbital in a Hydrogen-like atom (meaning- only one electron. No details about the nucleus)
All lines in the given spectrum are a result of an electron decaying for an excited state to the first excited state. The wavelength of line C is 48.214nm, Calculate the energy of a photon co-responding to line D.


Homework Equations



v=c/f
E(ph)= hv
Reidberg's equation (too complicated to type in)

The Attempt at a Solution



Our presentation didn't include any similar example, so I'm at a loss about how to approach this. Been staring at the page for a better part of the day.
Any help would be much appreciated
 

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  • #2
The Rydberg formula for hydrogen-like atoms is:
[itex]\frac{1}{\lambda}=RZ^{2}(\frac{1}{n^{2}_f}-\frac{1}{n^{2}_i})[/itex]
Since the graph constitutes the entire spectrum for any [itex]n_i\rightarrow2[/itex] transition with [itex]n_i>2[/itex], where [itex]n_f=2[/itex] for any transition (since [itex]n=2[/itex] for the first excited state).
Notice that A corresponds to transition [itex]3\rightarrow2[/itex], B corresponds to [itex]4\rightarrow2[/itex] and so on, hence you can figure out which transitions correspond to lines C and D respectively.
 
  • #3
ok, this clarified some things up, especially explaining the transitions.

EDIT-
thanks, i got it. Also managed to understand things properly along the way.
 
Last edited:

What are spectral lines?

Spectral lines are specific wavelengths of light emitted or absorbed by an atom. They are the result of electrons transitioning between different energy levels in an atom.

How are spectral lines produced?

Spectral lines are produced when electrons absorb energy and move to higher energy levels, or when they release energy and move to lower energy levels. This energy is emitted or absorbed in the form of light, with each element producing a unique set of spectral lines.

What is the significance of spectral lines in astronomy?

Spectral lines are used by astronomers to identify the chemical composition of celestial objects. By analyzing the unique set of spectral lines produced by different elements, astronomers can determine the elements present in a star or galaxy and even their relative abundance.

How are energy levels related to spectral lines?

Energy levels are the different states that electrons can occupy in an atom. The energy difference between these levels corresponds to the energy of the emitted or absorbed light, resulting in the unique spectral lines. The closer the energy levels are to the nucleus, the higher the energy required to move an electron to a higher level, resulting in shorter wavelengths and higher energy spectral lines.

Can spectral lines be used to study the properties of atoms?

Yes, the study of spectral lines and energy levels is known as spectroscopy and is used to determine the properties of atoms such as their energy levels, electron configurations, and even nuclear spin. This information is crucial for understanding the behavior and interactions of atoms in various environments.

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