Calculate the wavenumbers in cm-1 for

Question

Calculate the wavenumbers in cm-1 for the first three lines for the Brackett series of the hydrogen atom, where n1 = 4.

Answer 1

The lowest energy lines will be from falling from the minimum energy states above 4. (n = 5,6,7)

From the Rydberg equation 1/λ = Ry(1/4² - 1/n² ) where the Rydberg constant is 1.097 x 10⁵ cm^-1

You can also use the Bohr Energy for hc/λ = E and use the appropriate ground state energy for Hydrogen. If you use Joules, you will get λ in m and will have to adjust units.

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