Calculating Wavelength Using Atomic Emission Spectra and Balmer Series Equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the wavelength of light observed from a helium lamp using a diffraction grating. Participants suggest utilizing the Balmer series equation to determine the wavelength, specifically referencing the principal quantum numbers involved in the transitions. The experiment involves measuring distances on a meter stick to correlate with the observed colors in the spectrum. Accurate calculations require understanding the relationship between the measured distances and the wavelength derived from the Balmer series.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Balmer series equation
  • Knowledge of diffraction grating principles
  • Familiarity with quantum numbers in atomic transitions
  • Basic skills in experimental measurement techniques
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Balmer series equation and its applications in spectroscopy
  • Learn about diffraction grating calculations and their impact on wavelength determination
  • Study the significance of principal quantum numbers in electron transitions
  • Explore experimental techniques for measuring light wavelengths using spectroscopic methods
USEFUL FOR

Students in chemistry or physics, educators teaching spectroscopy, and researchers interested in atomic emission spectra and wavelength calculations.

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in an experiment we looked through the diffraction grating to see the spectrum made by a helium lamp.

we measured the distance along the meter stick to the point where we saw each color.

based on that distance how would you calculate the wavelength of the light that was seen?
would you use the balmer series equation? and if so what would be the principal quantum numbers?

any help on how to figure this out would be appreciated
 
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See http://sunny.moorparkcollege.edu/~chemistry/Chemistry_1A_labs/experiment_nine.pdf"
 
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