Consider a transition of the electron in the hydrogen atom from n = 8 to n = 3. (b) Will the light be absorbed or emitted?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the initial and final energy levels of the electron. In this case, the initial energy level (n_i) is 8 and the final energy level (n_f) is 3.
2. Understand that when an electron transitions between energy levels in an atom, energy is either absorbed or emitted. This depends on the direction of the electron's movement between energy levels.
3. Recognize that if the electron moves to a higher energy level (from a lower n to a higher n), energy is absorbed. Conversely, if the electron moves to a lower energy level (from a higher n to a lower n), energy is emitted.
4. Apply this understanding to the given transition from n = 8 to n = 3. Since the electron is moving from a higher energy level to a lower one, energy will be emitted in the form of light.
5. Conclude that for the transition of the electron from n = 8 to n = 3 in a hydrogen atom, light will be emitted.

Key Concepts

Energy Levels in Atoms

In an atom, electrons occupy specific energy levels, denoted by quantum numbers (n). The energy levels are quantized, meaning electrons can only exist at certain distances from the nucleus. The difference in energy between these levels determines whether energy is absorbed or emitted during electron transitions.

Photon Emission and Absorption

When an electron transitions from a higher energy level to a lower one, it emits a photon, releasing energy. Conversely, if an electron moves from a lower to a higher energy level, it absorbs a photon. The energy of the photon corresponds to the difference in energy between the two levels involved in the transition.

Spectral Lines and Wavelength

The light emitted or absorbed during electron transitions results in spectral lines, which are unique to each element. The wavelength of the emitted or absorbed light can be calculated using the Rydberg formula, which relates the wavelengths to the energy levels of the electron transitions. This concept is crucial for understanding atomic spectra and identifying elements.