Find the wavelengths Kα, Kβ , Lα and Lβ from elemental Cu

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the wavelengths of Kα, Kβ, Lα, and Lβ x-rays emitted from copper using the Rydberg formula with a mass correction. The user attempted to calculate the wavelength for Lβ but received incorrect feedback from WebAssign. Key questions raised include the choice of quantum numbers and the atomic number (Z) used in the calculations, with Z set at 29 for copper. There is confusion regarding the application of the formula, particularly the selection of n values for the transitions. The thread emphasizes the importance of correctly applying the Rydberg formula and ensuring accurate inputs for the calculations.
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Homework Statement


Problem: "What are the wavelengths of the characteristic Kα, Kβ , Lα and Lβ x-rays emitted from copper? Remember to use a Rydberg constant with the reduced mass correction made for elemental copper."

Givens:
Energy levels given:

Kα (2,1)

Kβ (3, 1)

Lα (3, 2)

Lβ (4, 2)​

Prompt and energy levels here: https://imgur.com/ygtSCWx

Homework Equations



No relevant equations were provided for this assignment. The prompt hinted to use the Rydberg formula, but since I took into account the mass correction for elemental copper was made. I used the following equation:

1/λ=RZ^2((1/n^2)−(1/n^2))

The Attempt at a Solution


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For LB (2,1), here is how I calculated the wavelength.

1/λ=RZ^2((1/n^2)−(1/n^2)) = (1.09737*10^7) * ((1/2^2) - (1/4^2))

λ = 0.14 nm

However, WebAssign has marked this wrong. Any suggestions?
 
Last edited:
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Why did you use 2 and 4 for the n values? What value did you use for Z?
 
mjc123 said:
Why did you use 2 and 4 for the n values? What value did you use for Z?
Sorry, meant to say Lβ (4, 2) .For Z, I used 29.
 
How did you get such wildly different numbers for the 4 lines (including one negative)?
 
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