Final answer:
The Lyman series involves electron transitions that end in the ground state or the first energy state (n = 1), emitting ultraviolet photons. The spectral line in the Lyman series corresponds to the radiation emitted by an electron jumping from higher energy states to the first energy state (a).
Step-by-step explanation:
The spectral line in question lies in the Lyman series, which corresponds to the radiation emitted by an electron jumping from higher energy states down to a specific energy state. The Lyman series is characterized by electron transitions that end in the ground state, which is the first energy state (n = 1). These transitions result in the emission of ultraviolet photons due to the large energies released. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is (a) first energy state.