The observed wavelengths of the hydrogen spectrum

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of observed wavelengths in the hydrogen spectrum, specifically focusing on the Balmer series and the appropriate integer values for quantum states involved in these transitions. The scope includes theoretical aspects of atomic physics and homework-related inquiries.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a formula for calculating wavelengths in the hydrogen spectrum and asks which sets of integers correspond to the Balmer series.
  • Another participant suggests that the inquiry appears to be homework-related and prompts the original poster to provide more context about their understanding of the hydrogen spectrum and the Balmer series.
  • A third participant states that the Balmer series consists of transitions that end in the state where nf = 2, asserting that the answers meeting this criterion are correct.
  • A later reply acknowledges the rules of the forum and questions whether the previous answer should be removed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on how to engage with the original question, with some focusing on providing answers while others emphasize adherence to forum rules regarding homework help. There is no consensus on how to proceed with the inquiry.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the clarity of the original poster's understanding of the topic, as well as the specific criteria for valid integer pairs in the context of the Balmer series.

Jessphsi
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can be calculated using the following formula:

1/ λ = R (1/n2f - 1/n2i)

Where nf and ni are integers that can have values nf = 1, 2, 3, . . . , ∞ and ni = nf + 1, nf + 2, nf + 3, . . . , ∞. Which of the following sets of integers give the wavelength of a line in the Balmer series? (Note: more than one answer may be correct)
ni = 2 nf = 1
ni = 6 nf = 2
ni = 3 nf = 1
ni = 5 nf = 3
ni = 9 nf = 2
 
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This sounds like homework. If so you should use the homework template. It's against PF rules for us to just give you the answer. What do you know about the hydrogen spectrum? What is the Balmer series?
 
Logical Somersaults said:
Balmer series are comprised of transitions that end in the ##n_{f}=2##. Both answers with this criteria are correct.
Hope this helps.

Please read the PF rules.
 
phyzguy said:
Please read the PF rules.
Apologies. Should I remove the answer?
 

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