How do atoms emit different photon energies?

In summary, the conversation is about how an atom of hydrogen gas can emit photons of different energies and the person is asking for an explanation without any homework involved. The expert suggests searching for information on photon emission from hydrogen and explains that it is due to the electron jumping between specific atomic orbitals. The conversation ends with a link for further understanding and the closing of the thread.
  • #1
Jeff97
92
5
Summary:: Based on this diagram can someone explain how atom of hydrogen gas can be made to emit photons of different energies?

IMG_3303.jpg
 

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  • #2
This homework ? If so, then post in introductory physics HW forum and tell us what you know and did to come to an answer...
 
  • #3
BvU said:
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
 
  • Skeptical
Likes undefined314
  • #4
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 ?
 
Last edited:
  • #5
Jeff97 said:
No homework here just wanted an explanation
Nevertheless: tell us what you know and did to come to an answer...
 
  • #6
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.
 
  • #7
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.
 

1. What is the relationship between an atom's energy levels and the photon energies it emits?

The energy levels of an atom determine the energy of the photons it emits. When an electron in an atom transitions from a higher energy level to a lower one, it releases a photon with an energy equal to the difference between the two levels. This is known as the Bohr model of the atom.

2. How do atoms emit photons with different energies?

The energy of a photon is determined by its wavelength, which is in turn determined by the frequency of the electromagnetic wave it represents. When an electron in an atom jumps from one energy level to another, the frequency of the emitted photon changes, resulting in a different energy and wavelength.

3. What factors influence the energy levels of an atom?

The energy levels of an atom are determined by the arrangement of its electrons and the forces between them. Specifically, the number of electrons, their distance from the nucleus, and the strength of the forces between them all play a role in determining the energy levels.

4. Can an atom emit photons with any energy?

No, an atom can only emit photons with energies that correspond to the energy differences between its energy levels. Each element has a unique set of energy levels, so the photon energies it can emit are also unique.

5. How is the emission of photons from atoms related to light and color?

When an atom emits photons, it releases energy in the form of light. The color of the light depends on the energy of the photons, with higher energy photons appearing as blue or violet, and lower energy photons appearing as red. The combination of different energy photons emitted by atoms is what gives different substances their distinct colors.

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