How to Calculate the Brackett Series in Excel?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the wavelengths of hydrogen atom transitions, specifically focusing on the Brackett series using Excel. The original poster seeks to create a spreadsheet to compute the first four lines of this series.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of Excel formulas, referencing cell addresses, and the correct application of variables. Questions are raised regarding the choice of initial quantum number (n0) and the interpretation of the Rydberg formula.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing examination of the original poster's approach, with some participants providing guidance on Excel usage and questioning the assumptions made about quantum numbers. Multiple interpretations of the variables involved are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential misunderstandings regarding the use of absolute and relative cell references in Excel, as well as the definition and role of quantum numbers in the context of the Brackett series.

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Homework Statement



I want to produce a simple Excel sheet to calculate the wavelengths of H atom transitions and calculate, in nm, the first 4 lines of the Brackett series.



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



Attempt at Excel sheet attached.
 

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There is so much wrong here, I don't know where to start! You need to read up about using formulas in Excel.

For one thing, there are no "variables", but rather cell addresses. For example, to use the value of R, which you put in cell C2, you need to reference it with $C$2 (the dollar signs mean that neither C nor 2 will change when you copy the cell, it is an absolute address). Another example, in G4, to use the value of n, you reference $E4. There is no dollar sign in front of the 4 because you want the formula in G5 to read $E5 instead.

Also, why do you take n0 as 5? Why do you have a n-1 in the formula?
 
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DrClaude said:
Also, why do you take n0 as 5? Why do you have a n-1 in the formula?

n0 should be 4.

I used n-1 in the formula to represent n' as in the Rydberg formula. n' being 1 less than n.
 
But isn't n' a fixed value? looking at the table in bottom right.. n' = 4 doesn't change does it.
 

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