Calculate the 4th line of the Balmer Series

In summary, the Balmer Series is a series of spectral lines emitted by hydrogen atoms when electrons transition from higher energy levels to the second energy level. It was first observed by Johann Balmer in the 19th century and is significant in providing evidence for the existence of energy levels in atoms. The 4th line of the series can be calculated using a formula and external factors such as temperature and pressure can affect the spectral lines. Other series similar to the Balmer Series include the Lyman, Paschen, Brackett, and Pfund Series, all named after their respective discoverers.
  • #1
miniradman
196
0

Homework Statement



Calculate wavelength of light the 4th line of the Balmer Series.

Homework Equations


The Rydberg Equation
7c53df3d1d6bba9ca9ba2a89f7f3baae.png



The Attempt at a Solution


Do I simply sub in 2 for n1 and 6 for n2?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
miniradman said:

Homework Statement



Calculate wavelength of light the 4th line of the Balmer Series.

Homework Equations


The Rydberg Equation
7c53df3d1d6bba9ca9ba2a89f7f3baae.png



The Attempt at a Solution


Do I simply sub in 2 for n1 and 6 for n2?

Try it and see... you can always look up the wavelengths for the series to compare your result.
 

1. What is the Balmer Series?

The Balmer Series is a series of spectral lines in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum that are emitted by hydrogen atoms when electrons transition from higher energy levels to the second energy level. These lines are named after Johann Balmer, who first observed them in the 19th century.

2. How do you calculate the 4th line of the Balmer Series?

The formula for calculating the wavelength of the 4th line of the Balmer Series is:λ = (4/3) * λ0Where λ is the wavelength of the 4th line and λ0 is the wavelength of the first line in the series (known as the Balmer limit).

3. What is the significance of the Balmer Series?

The Balmer Series is significant because it provided evidence for the existence of energy levels in atoms. This discovery helped to lay the foundation for the development of quantum mechanics and our understanding of atomic structure. The series is also useful in identifying and studying hydrogen-rich objects in space, such as stars and nebulae.

4. What factors affect the Balmer Series?

The main factor that affects the Balmer Series is the energy levels of the electrons within the hydrogen atom. The higher the energy level, the longer the wavelength of the emitted light. Additionally, external factors such as temperature and pressure can also affect the spectral lines in the series.

5. Are there other series similar to the Balmer Series?

Yes, there are several other series of spectral lines in the electromagnetic spectrum that are similar to the Balmer Series. These include the Lyman Series, which corresponds to transitions to the first energy level, and the Paschen, Brackett, and Pfund Series, which correspond to transitions to higher energy levels. These series are all named after the scientists who first observed them.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
1
Views
792
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
16
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
2K
Back
Top