Zeeman Effect: Homework Questions on n=2 & 3 Energy Levels in 2T Magnetic Field

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the normal Zeeman effect for a hydrogen atom in a 2T magnetic field, specifically analyzing the n=2 and n=3 energy levels. The energy separation between adjacent ml levels is calculated using the formula ΔE = μ*Δml*B, where μ is the Bohr magneton. The participant identifies 9 possible wavelengths for transitions from 3d to 2p states, considering changes in ml by ±1 or 0. The wavelength for each transition is derived from λ = h*c/ΔE, necessitating the calculation of ΔE for each transition based on altered energy states.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Zeeman effect and its implications on atomic energy levels.
  • Familiarity with quantum numbers (n, l, ml) and their significance in atomic physics.
  • Knowledge of the Bohr magneton and its role in magnetic interactions.
  • Proficiency in using the equations ΔE = μ*Δml*B and λ = h*c/ΔE for energy and wavelength calculations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of the Zeeman effect on atomic spectra in different magnetic field strengths.
  • Study the calculation of energy levels in hydrogen-like atoms under external magnetic fields.
  • Explore the differences between normal and anomalous Zeeman effects.
  • Learn about the application of quantum mechanics in predicting atomic transitions and spectral lines.
USEFUL FOR

Students and educators in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics and atomic physics, as well as researchers interested in atomic interactions in magnetic fields.

lee_sarah76
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Homework Statement


Consider the splitting of the n=2 and n=3 energy levels for a hydrogen atom placed in a 2T
magnetic field. Consider only the normal Zeeman effect (ignore spin). (a) What is the separation
in energy between adjacent ml levels for the same l? (b) How many different wavelengths will
there be for 3d to 2p transitions, if ml can change only by ±1 or 0? (c) What is the wavelength for
each of those transitions?


Homework Equations



ΔE = μ*Δml*B <--- μ is the Bohr magneton in this case.
λ = \frac{h*c}{ΔE}


The Attempt at a Solution



Part a I was able to do easily, by plugging Δml = 1, and 9.274*10-24 J/T for μ.

Part b, I had a little confusion, but I believe I did correctly, given that there are 5 possible states for ml when n = 3 and l = 2, and 3 possible states for ml when n = 2 and l = 1, so there are 9 possible wavelengths that could occur?

Is this correct, or do I also have to account for each of the Zeeman effects on energy and count those as different wavelengths as well?

Finally, for part c, I understand that the equation is simply λ = \frac{h*c}{ΔE}, but my confusion again lies in the part if I use the slightly altered energy states (For example, for the n = 3, l = 2, ml = 1 state, there could be a ΔE of plus or minus 1.8548 * 10-23 J.) or if I simply use the normal, non-affected values for E, then calculate ΔE and then λ?

Thanks, and I'd be happy to clarify if what I asked didn't make sense..
 
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There are 9 possible transitions. But you will need to go further and see if each transition gives a different wavelength.

With the magnetic field turned on, what is the expression for the energy En,l,ml of a level with quantum numbers n, l and ml? From that expression you can find ΔE for each of your 9 transitions.
 
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