How do atoms emit different photon energies?

[Jeff97]

Summary:: Based on this diagram can someone explain how atom of hydrogen gas can be made to emit photons of different energies?

 

[BvU]

This homework ? If so, then post in introductory physics HW forum and tell us what you know and did to come to an answer...

 

[Jeff97]

This homework ? If so, then post in introductory physics HW forum and tell us what you know and did to come to an answer...

No homework here just wanted an explanation

 

[BvU]

well, what about the lengths of the arrows ? Are they all the same ?
What do they represent ?

and what does img_3305 have to do with this at all ?

 

[BvU]

No homework here just wanted an explanation

Nevertheless: tell us what you know and did to come to an answer...

 

[DaveE]

So, I typed "photon emission from hydrogen" into google and got some pretty useful links. Have you tried that? If you find something there that confuses you, then this maybe a good place to ask for clarification.

 

[jedishrfu]

Short answer is there are specific atomic orbitals where the hydrogen electron may reside. As the electron absorbs a photon of a specific frequency it will jump to a higher orbital. When the electron emits a photon it will drop to a lower orbital.

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/hyde.html

Closing this thread since there’s nothing more to say on the topic.