How is Wavenumber related to visible lines in the Hydrogen spectrum?

In summary, the conversation discusses the relationship between wavenumber and the visible lines in the Hydrogen spectrum. The formula used to express this relationship is Wavenumber = 109,677(1/22 - 1/n2). The speaker, a student in 11th grade, is seeking clarification on how wavenumber is related to the visible lines in the spectrum. It is explained that wavenumber is the number of waves per unit length and is commonly used in spectroscopy applications. Further resources are also provided for more information.
  • #1
kay
60
2
It is given in my book that " If the spectral lines are expresses in terms of Wavenumber, then the visible lines of the Hydrogen spectrum obey the following formula:
Wavenumber = 109,677(1/22 - 1/n2)

Here, I cannot understand that how can the visible lines be expressed in terms of Wavenumber?
Wavenumber is the number of waves per unit length. How is it related to visible lines in the Hydrogen spectrum?
Please help. :confused:
PS- I am a student of 11th class.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #3
Thanks a ton! :)
 

Related to How is Wavenumber related to visible lines in the Hydrogen spectrum?

1. What is the line spectrum of Hydrogen?

The line spectrum of Hydrogen is a pattern of distinct colored lines that are emitted when Hydrogen gas is excited by a high energy source, such as an electric current or a flame. These lines correspond to different wavelengths of light and are unique to Hydrogen, making it a useful tool for identifying the presence of Hydrogen in a sample.

2. What causes the line spectrum of Hydrogen?

The line spectrum of Hydrogen is caused by the movement of electrons between energy levels in the Hydrogen atom. When an electron absorbs energy, it moves to a higher energy level, and when it releases energy, it moves back to a lower energy level. The released energy is in the form of light, and each energy level change corresponds to a specific wavelength of light, resulting in the characteristic line spectrum of Hydrogen.

3. How is the line spectrum of Hydrogen used in scientific research?

The line spectrum of Hydrogen is used in many fields of science, including astronomy, chemistry, and physics. It is used to identify the composition of stars and other celestial bodies, as well as to study the energy levels and transitions of atoms. It is also used in spectroscopy, a technique that analyzes the interaction between matter and light, to identify the chemical composition of substances.

4. Why is the line spectrum of Hydrogen important in the development of quantum mechanics?

The line spectrum of Hydrogen played a crucial role in the development of quantum mechanics, as it provided evidence for the existence of discrete energy levels in atoms. This contradicted the classical theory of continuous energy levels and led to the development of the quantum theory, which revolutionized our understanding of the behavior of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic level.

5. Can the line spectrum of Hydrogen be used to identify other elements?

Yes, the line spectrum of Hydrogen can be used to identify other elements, but it is not as effective as in the case of Hydrogen. This is because other elements have more complex energy levels and transitions, resulting in more complex and less distinct line spectra. However, it can still provide valuable information about the composition and energy levels of other elements, especially when combined with other analytical techniques.

Similar threads

B How does the hydrogen line spectrum work with only one orbit?
    • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
10
Views
1K
Hydrogen Emission Spectrum and Electron Energy Levels
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
How is the horizon length related to the power law spectrum
    • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
902
B How Can a Hydrogen Atom Emit Multiple Colors Simultaneously?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
2
Views
1K
How Do You Identify Spectral Lines and Calculate Fine Structure Constants?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
I Understanding Gunn-Peterson through the Reionization epoch
    • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
11
Views
3K
B Using Interference Principles to Increase the Efficiency of Solar Panels
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
0
Views
119
I Blackbody radiation and the cosmic microwave background
    • Classical Physics
Replies
29
Views
2K
A Relation between Matter Power spectrum and Angular power spectrum
    • Cosmology
Replies
2
Views
1K
I Some questions about Cosmic Microwave Background radiation
    • Cosmology
Replies
13
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top