Calculate the wave number corresponding to the most energetic spectral line

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the wave number for the most energetic spectral line in the Lyman series of the hydrogen atom. It involves the application of the Rydberg formula and considerations of significant figures in the calculation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a calculation using the Rydberg formula and claims to have obtained a wave number of 10974214 m-1.
  • Another participant questions the validity of the first participant's assertion that their answer is wrong.
  • A third participant mentions that the answer was marked incorrect in MasteringChemistry, suggesting that external validation is involved.
  • One participant raises a point about the significance of significant figures, noting that using Rydberg's constant with three significant figures may limit the precision of the final answer.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the initial calculation is correct or incorrect. There are multiple viewpoints regarding the potential issues with the calculation, particularly concerning significant figures.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential limitations related to the precision of constants used in calculations and the interpretation of significant figures, but these aspects remain unresolved.

atsum
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Calculate the wave number corresponding to the most energetic spectral line in the Lyman series for the hydrogen atom.
Express your answer to six significant figures and include the appropriate units.

I use the formula:
http://i.imgur.com/YgLVY.jpg

Because the question asks the most energetic one, so
[wave number = Rydberg's constant/h/c]
I got the answer10974214m-1
But the answer is wrong.
What's wrong with my calculation?
 
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What makes you think the answer is wrong?
 
Borek said:
What makes you think the answer is wrong?

I did it in MasteringChemistry. It says the answer is wrong.
 
If you are given Rydberg's constant with three significant figures, you can't give the answer with eight.

Not that I am sure that's the problem, but it surely can be one.
 

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