Calculating Quantum Defect for Na I 3p-nd, n=4-7 Terms

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the quantum defect for the Na I 3p-nd terms, specifically for n=4 to 7. The ionization energy of Na I is established at 41449.6 cm-1. Participants utilize the equation ##E_{ionization} - E_{excitation} = T = R\frac{(z-N_{inner})^2}{(n-\delta)^2}## to derive quantum defects, with specific values calculated for ##\delta_p##, ##\delta_s##, and ##\delta_d##. The calculated quantum defects are ##\delta_p = 2.739##, ##\delta_s = 1.373##, and ##\delta_d = 3.1356##, although concerns are raised regarding the accuracy of these values.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, particularly in atomic physics.
  • Familiarity with the concept of quantum defects in atomic spectra.
  • Proficiency in using the Rydberg formula for energy level calculations.
  • Basic knowledge of sodium (Na I) atomic structure and ionization energy.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Rydberg formula and its application in calculating energy levels.
  • Study quantum defects in detail, focusing on their significance in atomic transitions.
  • Explore advanced quantum mechanics topics related to multi-electron atoms.
  • Investigate experimental methods for measuring atomic wavelengths and energy levels.
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in atomic physics, particularly those studying quantum mechanics and atomic spectra, as well as educators teaching these concepts in advanced physics courses.

Philip Land
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Homework Statement


The spectrum shows the series 3p - nd, n = 4 - 7 in Na as well as the resonance line 3s - 3p, with the experimental vacuum wavelengths in Å.Calculate the quantum defect for the nd ##^2D## n = 4-7 terms. Estimate, as accurately as possible, the wavelength for 3p - 8d. The ionization energy in Na I is 41449.6 cm-1. Neglect all finestructure.

Homework Equations


##E_{ionization} - E_{excitation} = T = R\frac{(z-N_{inner})^2}{(n-\delta)^2}##

The Attempt at a Solution


Hi!

I can take the inverse of the given wavelength, to get T. ##\frac{1}{\lambda} = T##.

Then I can plug this into the above equation and solve for delta. ##\delta = n - sqrt(\frac{R*(z-N_{inner})^2)}{T})##

But my question is. Do I also need to take the quantum defect for p into account?

Where my ##T = R*(z-N_{inner})^2 ( \frac{1}{(n-\delta_p)^2} - \frac{1}{(n-\delta_d)^2}) ##

And if so, how would I get ##\delta_p##?

If it was s, I could impy solve for ##delta_s## when putting ##T= E_{io}##.

Figure attached
Skärmavbild 2018-08-14 kl. 14.35.08.png
 

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Philip Land said:
But my question is. Do I also need to take the quantum defect for p into account?
From the data you have, can't you calculate E(3p) and then find the quantum defect from energy levels relative to that?
 
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DrClaude said:
From the data you have, can't you calculate E(3p) and then find the quantum defect from energy levels relative to that?

Thanks. I actually think I can by looking at the blue lines. I can put 6140 = ##R( \frac{1}{(5- \delta_s)^2}-\frac{1}{(3-\delta_p)^2})## Where quantum defect for s is ##\delta_s = 3- sqrt( \frac{R}{E_{io}}.## I guess.

On the right track? :)

There's no facit so I can't really tell if the asnswer is correct.
 
DrClaude said:
From the data you have, can't you calculate E(3p) and then find the quantum defect from energy levels relative to that?
But doing this i get

delta p = 2.739

delta s = 1.373

delta d = 3.1356

Which seems to be to high values.
 

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