Energy Level question (quantam physics)

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around determining the lower energy level of a hydrogen atom when an electron transitions from the fifth energy level, emitting a photon with a wavelength of 434 nm. The relevant equation involves Rydberg's constant (R) and the wavelengths of emitted light. The user expresses confusion about rearranging the equation to solve for the lower energy level (n2) and is unsure how to apply the values correctly. Clarifications are provided regarding the meaning of Rydberg's constant and the conversion of wavelength units from nanometers to meters. The thread emphasizes the importance of proper equation manipulation to find the correct value for n2.
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Homework Statement


The hydrogen spectrum contains a blue line with a wavelength of 434 nm. Photons of blue light are emitted when hydrogen's electron drops from the fifth engery level to a lower energy level. What is the lower energy level?
Given
Wavelength = 434 nm
n1 = 5
n2 = ?
R = 1.097 x 10^7 m^-1 (which i am not sure what this means or how to apply it but anyways)

Homework Equations


1/wavelength = R [ 1/n2^2 - 1/n1^2]


The Attempt at a Solution



1/434 = (1.097 x 10^7 m^-1) [1/n2^2 - 1/5^2]
1/434 = (1.097 x 10^7 m^-1) [1/n2^2 - 1/25]
0.0023 = (1.097 x 10^7 m^-1) [1/n2^2 - 0.04]
0.0023 / (1.097 x 10^7 m^-1) = [1/n2^2 - 0.04]
((0.0023 / (1.097 x 10^7 m^-1)) +0.04 = 1/n2^2

AND now I am totally lost because it doesn't make any sense.. plug those values into your calculator and i get the exaxt same number for n2 as i started with n1 jeez! SOMEONE HELP! :eek:
 
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R is Rydbergs constant. You need to rearrange the equation you provided for n2.

Remember that is 434nm aswell.
 
does nm = Nanometers?
 
Yes. 1nm = 1x10-9m
 
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