Question

According to the quantum-mechanical model for the hydrogen atom, which electron transition produces light with the longer wavelength: 3p→2s or 4p→3p?

1) 3p→2s
2) 4p→3p

Answer 1

The 4p to 3p electron transition in hydrogen produces light with a longer wavelength than the 3p to 2s transition.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the quantum-mechanical model for the hydrogen atom, electron transitions between different energy levels result in the emission of light. The longer the wavelength of the emitted light, the lower the energy of the transition. The electron transition from the 4p to the 3p orbit involves a larger energy difference compared to the transition from the 3p to the 2s orbit. Therefore, the 4p to 3p transition produces light with a longer wavelength than the 3p to 2s transition.