Electron Transitions and Spectral Lines Conceptual Question

[Robbi]

Homework Statement

The spectrum of a hypothetical atom is shown in the figure. Three distinct spectral series are shown, with the center series corresponding to transitions to a final state of n_f = 3. (f is final)
The indicated spectral line corresponds to the transition from an initial state of n_i = 5 to the final state n_f = 3
http://session.masteringphysics.com/problemAsset/1012506/12/1012506.jpg"

A) Which of the lettered spectral lines corresponds to the transition from n_i = 6 to n_f = 3?

B) Which of the lettered spectral lines corresponds to the transition from n_i = 5 to n_f = 4?

C) Which of the lettered spectral lines corresponds to the transition from n_i = 5 to n_f = 2?

Homework Equations

Balmer, Lyman, Paschen, Brackett & Pfund series, but as far as I know they work for hydrogen atoms exclusively. I don't think I need any equations for this problem.

The Attempt at a Solution

I know that with increased wavelength, frequency and energy decrease. Lowest n's respond to highest wavelengths, thus lowest energy. In parts A, B & C I'm always going from a high energy state to a lower one? I don't understand the question, I don't understand how these three spectral series are split up and I don't understand how n_i and n_f are associated to the picture. So if someone could clarify this would be more then epic. (I don't just want the answers)

 

[_coyote_]

Thanks! A:You are correct in that you do not need equations for this problem. The three distinct spectra in the figure correspond to Balmer (n=2 to infinity), Lyman (n=1 to infinity), and Paschen (n=3 to infinity) series. These series correspond to transitions from the higher energy state, n, down to the lower energy state n=2,1,3 respectively. Part A: The transition is from n=6 to n=3, so the corresponding line would be from the Paschen series since n=3 is the lower final state.Part B: The transition is from n=5 to n=4, so the corresponding line would be from the Balmer series since n=2 is the lower final state. Part C: The transition is from n=5 to n=2, so the corresponding line would be from the Lyman series since n=1 is the lower final state.