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Ch.7 - Quantum-Mechanical Model of the Atom
Chapter 7, Problem 69

Calculate the wavelength of the light emitted when an electron in a hydrogen atom makes each transition and indicate the region of the electromagnetic spectrum (infrared, visible, ultraviolet, etc.) where the light is found. a. n = 2 → n = 1 b. n = 3 → n = 1 c. n = 4 → n = 2 d. n = 5 → n = 2

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Energy Levels in Hydrogen Atom

In a hydrogen atom, electrons occupy specific energy levels, denoted by quantum numbers (n). When an electron transitions between these levels, it either absorbs or emits energy in the form of light. The energy difference between the levels determines the wavelength of the emitted light, which can be calculated using the Rydberg formula.
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Wavelength and Frequency Relationship

The wavelength of light is inversely related to its frequency, as described by the equation c = λν, where c is the speed of light, λ is the wavelength, and ν is the frequency. This relationship is crucial for determining the wavelength of light emitted during electron transitions in the hydrogen atom, as the energy of the emitted photon can be calculated from the frequency.
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Regions of the Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum is divided into various regions based on wavelength and frequency, including infrared, visible, and ultraviolet light. The wavelength calculated from electron transitions in a hydrogen atom will fall into one of these regions, which helps in identifying the type of light emitted. For example, transitions from higher energy levels often result in ultraviolet light, while lower energy transitions may emit visible or infrared light.
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