Converting cm^-1 for Fine-Structure Energy Difference

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on converting fine-structure energy differences expressed in cm-1 to a usable format for statistical calculations involving the equation exp(-beta*E). Participants clarify that cm-1 represents wavenumbers, which can be converted to energy using the formula E = hc/λ. A specific conversion factor is provided: E(in eV) = [1.97 x 10-5] k(in cm-1), facilitating the transition from wavenumber to electron volts.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of statistical mechanics and the role of energy in calculations.
  • Familiarity with the concept of wavenumbers and their physical significance.
  • Knowledge of energy conversion formulas, specifically E = hc/λ.
  • Basic proficiency in using scientific notation for constants and units.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the relationship between energy and frequency in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore the Wikipedia page on wavenumbers for detailed conversion methods.
  • Learn about the implications of using cm-1 in spectroscopy and its applications.
  • Investigate statistical mechanics further, focusing on the role of beta in energy calculations.
USEFUL FOR

Researchers in quantum mechanics, physicists working with spectroscopy, and anyone involved in statistical calculations related to energy differences will benefit from this discussion.

somy
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I have seen in text that it used an unfamiliar unit for fine-structure energy difference in a species. The unit was: cm^-1.
I need these energies to do some statistical calculations in exp(-beta*E). Can anyone tell me how can I convert this unit or convert beta to this unit?

Thanks!
 
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cm^-1 probably means that the the figures are given in units of inverse wavelengths (i.e. the wavenumber, but in this case without the 2\pi).
You can either convert using the relation between energy and frequency which can also be written E= hc /\lambda, or simply look at the wiki-page on wavenumbers where you can find the conversion factor

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wavenumber
 
I believe the cm^-1 is the wave number k.
A simple conversion from cm^-1 to keV is
E(in eV)=[1.97X10^-5] k(in cm^-1).
 

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