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

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the quantum defect for the nd terms in the sodium (Na I) spectrum, specifically for the transitions from 3p to nd states where n ranges from 4 to 7. Participants are analyzing experimental vacuum wavelengths and the ionization energy of Na I.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss using the inverse of the given wavelength to determine the energy T and how to incorporate quantum defects for different states (s, p, d) into their calculations. Questions arise about whether the quantum defect for the p state should be considered and how to derive it.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing their calculations and questioning the validity of their results. Some guidance has been provided regarding the calculation of energy levels and quantum defects, but there is no explicit consensus on the correctness of the values obtained.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the absence of a definitive answer key, which contributes to uncertainty in verifying their results. There is also mention of neglecting fine structure in the calculations.

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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