Solving the 411nm Wavelength Emission from Hydrogen

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the electronic transition in a hydrogen atom that corresponds to the emission of light at a wavelength of 411 nm. The context is rooted in atomic physics and the behavior of hydrogen emissions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to eliminate options based on their understanding of the relationship between the principal quantum numbers. Some participants suggest directly substituting the values into the provided formula to find the correct transition.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants expressing confusion and seeking clarification on the application of the Rydberg formula. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of the formula, but no consensus has been reached on the correct transition.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of uncertainty regarding the correct application of the formula, and the original poster expresses doubt about certain options based on their reasoning about the quantum numbers.

adream
Messages
2
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Light of wavelength 411 nm is emitted from a hydrogen discharge. What transition produces this emission?

a. k = 5 to n =1
b. k = 4.5 to n = 2
c. k = 2 to n = 6
d. k = 2 to n = 3
e. k = 6 to n = 2

Homework Equations



R = (1/n^2 - 1/k^2)

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not really sure how to solve it. But I'm sure its not a, b, or e. Because n to be bigger then k to make it positive. THat left me with c and d. Someone please hint me how to do this.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Just plug in the choices for k and n pairs in the formula and see which one gives you the right wavelength.
 
totally confused. >< can someone explain it to me.
 

Similar threads

Hydrogen Emission Spectrum and Electron Energy Levels
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Projectile motion with ##N## bounces on the ground
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
2K
Hydrogen emission spectrum calculation
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Find the wavelengths Kα, Kβ , Lα and Lβ from elemental Cu
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Are the 2nd and 3rd problems in this video correctly solved? (charged dipole and organ pipe problems)
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Scaling of Emission Wavelengths in Balmer Series for ##Li^{2+}##?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Photons emitted by Hydrogen and helium atoms
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Why Is the Calculated Wavelength Incorrect in This Hydrogen Atom Problem?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Power Radiated From a Copper Cube
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
Electric Field of a Toroid carrying a changing current I = kt on axis
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K