Equation for modeling atomic spectra of all atoms

In summary, the equation discussed in the conversation is only for hydrogen and approximately for Rydberg states. It uses E=h*v and Planck's constant to calculate frequency, and there is no general equation for all atoms. The spectra may vary for different isotopes due to the isotope shift, which can be described by a simple formula. The lack of a general result for multi-electron atoms is not due to quantum mechanics and probabilities, but rather the complexity of the system.
  • #1
Xilus
27
0
I've seen the equation I think is just for hydrogen. is this just for hydrogen?
energy_hydrogen.png

of course this doesn't return the atomic spectra, it returns the energy.
So using E=h*v and Planck's constant. a simple factor of 1/h would return the frequency.
right? Energy is directly proportional to frequency.
and E0=13.6eV n1<n2 where both n1 and n2 are integers

Is there an equation that models atomic spectra of all atoms?
 
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  • #2
Xilus said:
is this just for hydrogen?
Yes it's only for hydrogen, and approximately for the so-called Rydberg states.

Xilus said:
So using E=h*v and Planck's constant. a simple factor of 1/h would return the frequency.
right?
Yes.

Xilus said:
Is there an equation that models atomic spectra of all atoms?
As far as I know, no. We haven't derived the general expression for energy levels for all atoms.
 
  • #3
is the spectra the same for all isotopes?
 
  • #4
Xilus said:
is the spectra the same for all isotopes?
There is the so-called isotope shift which arise due to the fact that the nucleus is not completely at rest. It moves around by a very little amount which in turn disturbs the motion and hence wavefunction and energy levels of electrons. Different nuclear mass will have different effect on the wavefunction.
 
  • #5
The formula for the isotope shift is quite simple. It's just a scaling by the reduced mass.
The energy is
$$E_M = \frac{M}{m_e+M} E_\infty \left(\frac{1}{n_1^2} - \frac{1}{n_2^2}\right)$$
where ##m_e## is the electron mass, ##M## is the nuclear mass, and ##E_\infty \approx 13.605693## eV
 
  • #6
I think quantum mechanics brings in probabilities into physics ,so due to no determinism we cannot describe a general result for multielectron atoms.
 
  • #7
That's not the reason we don't have a general result. The reason is that it's just too complicated for a simple analytical formula.
 

1. What is the equation for modeling atomic spectra of all atoms?

The equation for modeling atomic spectra of all atoms is known as the Rydberg formula, which is given by:
R = (En) / (h * c * λ) = 1 / (λ * R) * (1/n12 - 1/n22)
Where:
R = Rydberg constant
En = energy level of the atom
h = Planck's constant
c = speed of light
λ = wavelength of light
n1 and n2 are integers representing the energy levels of the atom.

2. How is the Rydberg formula used for modeling atomic spectra?

The Rydberg formula is used to calculate the wavelengths of light emitted or absorbed by atoms. By plugging in the energy levels of the atom (n1 and n2), the formula can determine the specific wavelength of light that will be emitted or absorbed by the atom. This allows scientists to study and understand the unique spectra of different atoms.

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

The Rydberg constant (R) is a fundamental constant in physics that is used to relate the wavelength of light to the energy levels of atoms. It is a universal constant that applies to all atoms, making it a crucial component in the equation for modeling atomic spectra of all atoms.

4. Can the Rydberg formula be used for all atoms?

Yes, the Rydberg formula can be used for all atoms. It is a fundamental equation in atomic physics and applies to all elements, regardless of their atomic number or structure. However, the specific values for the Rydberg constant and the energy levels of the atoms may vary depending on the element being studied.

5. How does the Rydberg formula contribute to our understanding of atomic structure?

The Rydberg formula plays a crucial role in understanding the energy levels and structure of atoms. By studying the wavelengths of light emitted or absorbed by atoms, scientists can determine the energy levels and transitions between them. This helps in understanding the arrangement of electrons in an atom and the overall structure of the atom.

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