Why Is the Balmer Series More Commonly Seen than Other Hydrogen Emission Series?

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The Balmer series is more commonly observed in hydrogen emission spectra because it corresponds to electron transitions falling to the n=2 energy level, which emits visible light. In contrast, the Lyman series emits ultraviolet light and the Paschen series emits infrared light, making them less visible to the naked eye. The visibility of these series is also influenced by the equipment used; high-quality spectrometers are needed to distinguish between hydrogen and deuterium spectra. The discussion highlights the importance of spectroscopic tools in observing different emission series. Overall, the Balmer series is prevalent due to its visibility in the spectrum compared to other series.
Jules18
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I keep seeing the hydrogen emission spectrum from the Balman series (when an electron falls to n=2). It's all over my textbook.
Why don't I ever see the Lyman series or any other series?

Is it really rare for hydrogen electrons to fall to energy levels other than n=2?
 
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Only the Balmer series is visible. The Lyman series is UV, and the Paschen series is IR. If you have a good spectrometer, compare hydrogen to the deuterium spectrum.
 
Thanks.
 
It takes a very good spectrometer to distinguish hydrogen from deuterium. A decent Eschelle will do it, but the sort of thing you will find in a Chem 101 lab probably won't.
 
I love the names...Lyman, Balmer,Paschen, Bracket,Pfund and Humphreys.We need one more to make the magnificent seven.How about Dilbert?
 

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