Atomic Structure- Energy diff between levels

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the energy difference between adjacent vibrational levels of the NaCl molecule, using given parameters such as atomic weights, internuclear separation, and spring constant. A participant attempts to use reduced mass and the spring constant to find the vibrational frequency but arrives at an incorrect energy value. Several users emphasize the importance of ensuring that atomic weights are converted to kilograms for accurate calculations. Additionally, there is a reminder to check units throughout the calculations. The conversation highlights the need for clarity on definitions and unit conversions in physics problems.
rxy152
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Homework Statement


Consider the NaCl molecule, in which the atomic weights of Na and Cl are 23 and 37, respectively. The internuclear separation is 0.236 nm, and the ”spring constant” for vibrations is k = Mred ω^2 = 1 × 10^9 J/m^2 . Calculate the energy difference between adjacent vibrational levels. The value of h-bar is 1.055 × 10^−34 J · s. Answer in units of eV

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I tried using reduced mass where m(red) = 23*37 / (23+37)= 14.18

Then plugged m(red) in the equation k = Mred ω^2 where i solved for ω = 8396

With ω, I used E=hbar * ω to get E = 8.8548E-31 J

= 5.527E-12 eV, which is wrong.

Plz Help!
 
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Check your units. Are the masses of Na and Cl in kg?
 
phyzguy said:
Check your units. Are the masses of Na and Cl in kg?

It doesn't state the units, which i thought was weird.

Here are some constants provided -
The value of h bar is 1.05457 × 10^−34 J · s ; the speed of light is 2.99799 × 10^8 m/s ; the value of h is 6.62607 × 10^−34 J · s ; the Rydberg constant for hydrogen is 1.09735 × 10^7 m −1 ; the Bohr radius is 5.29177 × 10^−11 m ; and the ground state energy for hydrogen 13.6057 eV .
 
rxy152 said:
It doesn't state the units, which i thought was weird.

You need to look up what "atomic weight" means, and how to calculate the mass of an atom (in kg) given its atomic weight.
 
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