Atomic physics: sodium D-line transition missing 2 pi

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the wavelength of the sodium transition from the 3p^{1},^{2}P state to the 3s^{1},^{2}S state. The initial approach using the energy equation E_{n,l} = -\frac{hcR}{(n - d(n,l))^{2}} did not yield accurate results. The correct formula for wavelength is confirmed as \lambda = \frac{hc}{\Delta E}, clarifying the confusion regarding the use of \hbar instead of h. The participant identified the missing factor of 2\pi in their calculations, which led to the misunderstanding.

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  • Understanding of atomic transitions in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with the Rydberg formula for spectral lines
  • Knowledge of energy levels and quantum numbers
  • Basic grasp of Planck's constant (h) and reduced Planck's constant (\hbar)
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  • Study the Rydberg formula in detail for various atomic transitions
  • Learn about the significance of quantum numbers in atomic physics
  • Explore the relationship between energy and wavelength in quantum mechanics
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Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and atomic physics, will benefit from this discussion. It is also valuable for anyone involved in spectroscopy and the study of atomic transitions.

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Homework Statement



Find the wavelength of the sodium transition [tex]3p^{1},^{2}P -> 3s^{1},^{2}S[/tex]

Homework Equations



[tex]E_{n,l} = -\frac{hcR}{(n - d(n,l))^{2}}[/tex]

d(3,s) = 1.374
d(3,p) = 0.884

[tex]\lambda = \frac{\hbar c}{\Delta E}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



Plugging the numbers in ain't even close. However, I've found another equation that works:

[tex]\frac{1}{\lambda} = -R[\frac{1}{(n_{i} - d_{i}(n,l))^{2}} - \frac{1}{(n_{f} - d_{f}(n,l))^{2}}][/tex]

but since E is proportional to [tex]\hbar[/tex] and the RHS on the top equation just to h... where did the [tex]2\pi[/tex] go..?
 
Last edited:
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'Sokay. Just realized [tex]\lambda = \frac{hc}{\Delta E}[/tex] not [tex]\frac{\hbar c}{\Delta E}[/tex]. Knew it would be something stupid.
 

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