Emission Spectra and the Rydberg Equation

In summary, a student is able to calibrate her spectroscope by collecting diffraction data using a lamp with known emission wavelengths and corresponding line positions. With this calibrated spectroscope, she is able to determine the wavelength of an emission line at 55mm from another lamp. This can be related to line position by using the known emission wavelengths and line positions of the first lamp to create a calibration curve.
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osaki2
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A student collects diffraction data using a lamp with known emission wavelengths of 425nm, 565nm, 600nm, and 700nm. These lines appeared on her spectroscope at 32mm, 59mm, 63mm, and 69mm (all measured from the same arbitrary 0mm position). With these data she is able to calibrate her spectroscope, and using this calibrated spectroscope she observes another lamp that has an emission line at 55mm.

What is the wavelength of this emission line? (Tip: how can you relate line position with wavelength?)
 
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This looks like a homework question. If so, please post in the homework subforum.
 
  • #3
Yes, please do that. The "Introductory Physics" subforum of "Homework & Coursework Questions" is the appropriate place:

https://www.physicsforums.com/forumdisplay.php?f=153

Use the template that you see when you start a new thread there, and show at least some work or thoughts about the problem.
 

1. What is an emission spectrum?

An emission spectrum is a pattern of wavelengths of light that are emitted by an atom or molecule when it undergoes a transition from a higher energy state to a lower energy state. This spectrum is unique to each element or compound and can be used to identify the composition of a sample.

2. How is the Rydberg equation used to calculate emission spectra?

The Rydberg equation is a mathematical formula that relates the wavelengths of light emitted by an atom to the energy levels of its electrons. It is used to calculate the specific wavelengths of light that will be emitted by an atom when its electrons transition between energy levels.

3. What is the significance of the Rydberg constant in the equation?

The Rydberg constant is a fundamental constant in physics that represents the relationship between the energy levels of an atom and the wavelengths of light it emits. It is used in the Rydberg equation to calculate the specific wavelengths of light emitted by an atom.

4. Can the Rydberg equation be applied to all elements?

Yes, the Rydberg equation can be applied to all elements as long as they have discrete energy levels for their electrons. However, it is most commonly used for hydrogen because it has only one electron, making the calculations simpler.

5. How does the emission spectrum of an element help in its identification?

Each element has a unique emission spectrum, so by analyzing the wavelengths of light emitted by a sample, scientists can identify the elements present. This is useful in fields such as astronomy, where the composition of stars and other celestial objects can be determined by their emission spectra.

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