Question

Using the Rydberg equation, calculate the energy for the following electronic transitions in a hydrogen atom and label each as an absorption or an emission. When calculating, watch your signs!

n = 3 → n = 1

a. Energy calculation
b. absorption or emission?

Answer 1

-1.94 * 10^-18 J

Since the electron moved from a higher to a lower energy level (n = 3 → n = 1) it is an emission.

Step-by-step explanation:

From Rydberg equation;

E = -RH(1/n^2final - 1/n^2initial)

For a transition from n = 3 → n = 1

RH = 2.18 * 10^-18 J

E = -(2.18 * 10^-18) (1/1^2 - (1/3^2)

E = -(2.18 * 10^-18) (1-1/9)

E= -(2.18 * 10^-18) (8/9)

E = -1.94 * 10^-18 J