Number of photons emitted between transitions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the number of photons emitted when an electron transitions from the n = 4 energy level to the n = 1 ground state. It is established that the number of photons emitted can vary based on the path taken: 1 photon for a direct transition (n = 4 to n = 1), 2 photons for a transition through n = 2 (n = 4 to n = 2 to n = 1), and 3 photons for a transition through n = 3 (n = 4 to n = 3 to n = 2 to n = 1). The consensus indicates that the correct answers include options (a), (b), and (c), depending on the transition method chosen.

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Homework Statement


# When an electron jumps from n = 4 level to n = 1 level(ground state), the number of photons emitted is:
a) 1
b) 3
c) 4
d) 2


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



If the electron first moves from n = 4 to n = 3, then to n = 2 and then finally to n = 1 level then 3 photons are emitted. Similarly it can be 2 photons if the successive transitions are 4-->2-->1 or 4-->3-->1. It can be 1 if the transition is 4-->1. So are the suitable answers (a),(b) & (c)?
 
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Amith2006 said:

Homework Statement


# When an electron jumps from n = 4 level to n = 1 level(ground state), the number of photons emitted is:
a) 1
b) 3
c) 4
d) 2


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



If the electron first moves from n = 4 to n = 3, then to n = 2 and then finally to n = 1 level then 3 photons are emitted. Similarly it can be 2 photons if the successive transitions are 4-->2-->1 or 4-->3-->1. It can be 1 if the transition is 4-->1. So are the suitable answers (a),(b) & (c)?

I think jumps from n = 4 to n = 1 means one transition, not a series of transitions.
 
OlderDan said:
I think jumps from n = 4 to n = 1 means one transition, not a series of transitions.

Indeed, and normally not all such transition states are allowed...

marlon
 

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