Identify the transition that leads to this line

In summary, the line observed in the hydrogen spectrum with a wavelength of 1091nm is caused by an electron jumping from a higher energy orbit to a lower one. This transition can be represented by the formula 1/\lambda = R(1/nf2-1/ni2), where n is the initial and final orbit numbers. By plugging in values for n, it was determined that the transition from orbit 3 to 6 yields a wavelength close to 1091nm.
  • #1
nick227
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Homework Statement



A line of wavelength [tex]\lambda[/tex] = 1091nm is observed in the hydrogen spectrum. Identify the transition that leads to this line.

Homework Equations



I don't know what this is asking...

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2


Electrons can only orbit the nucleus in specific orbits, which is dependent upon their energy. The radii of the orbits are not continuous, but discrete. Therefore, when an electron moves from a higher energy orbit to a lower energy orbit, it emits a photon of a specific wavelength and energy that corresponds to the difference of energy inherent in these discrete orbits. The Rydberg-Ritz formula should be helpful here.
 
  • #3


The lines in the hydrogen spectrum are caused by an electron jumping from one of the orbits n=1,2,3,4,... to a lower one. You should be able to find a formula for the wavelength (or energy) of such a transition in terms of those two numbers). Now try putting in values for those numbers until you find a pair that approximately matches 1091nm.
 
  • #4


Dick said:
The lines in the hydrogen spectrum are caused by an electron jumping from one of the orbits n=1,2,3,4,... to a lower one. You should be able to find a formula for the wavelength (or energy) of such a transition in terms of those two numbers). Now try putting in values for those numbers until you find a pair that approximately matches 1091nm.

1/[tex]\lambda[/tex] = R(1/nf2-1/ni2)?

so if i try 3 and 6, i get 1.093*10^-6. this is it, right? thanks so much.
 
  • #5


That's what I got. So it MUST be right.
 

1. What is meant by "transition" in this context?

In this context, "transition" refers to a change or shift from one state or condition to another. It could be a change in physical properties, chemical composition, or any other measurable factor.

2. How can I identify the transition that leads to a specific line?

To identify the transition that leads to a specific line, you need to analyze the spectral data of the substance. This involves studying the absorption or emission spectrum and identifying the wavelengths at which the changes occur.

3. What are some common transitions that can lead to a line in a spectrum?

Some common transitions that can lead to a line in a spectrum include electronic transitions (changes in the energy levels of electrons), vibrational transitions (changes in the vibrational states of molecules), and rotational transitions (changes in the rotational energy of molecules).

4. Can the transition that leads to a specific line be influenced by external factors?

Yes, external factors such as temperature, pressure, and the presence of other substances can affect the transition that leads to a specific line. This is because these factors can alter the energy levels and states of the particles in the substance, thus affecting the wavelength of the line.

5. Why is it important to identify the transition that leads to a line in a spectrum?

Identifying the transition that leads to a line in a spectrum can provide valuable information about the substance. It can help in determining the chemical composition, structure, and properties of the substance, as well as its potential applications in various fields of science and technology.

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