Balmer series experiment

In summary, the Balmer series experiment investigates the emission spectra of hydrogen, focusing on the visible light wavelengths produced when an electron transitions from higher energy levels to the second energy level (n=2). This series of spectral lines, known as Balmer lines, is crucial for understanding atomic structure and quantum mechanics. The experiment typically involves exciting hydrogen gas and analyzing the emitted light with a spectroscope to observe and measure the wavelengths of the Balmer lines, demonstrating the quantized nature of electron energy levels in atoms.
  • #1
MatinSAR
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Homework Statement
Canculate ##\lambda## using information you have.
Relevant Equations
##n\lambda=d\sin\theta##
Hello. In data that the professor sent, I see only ##n## and ##\theta##. So I do not know what is d. Can I find ##\lambda## without it?
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On other thing he mentioned :
Suppose that the diffraction grating consists of 300 lines per millimeter.

I know that d is the distance between two consecutive diffraction grating lines, but I don't know if it has anything to do with what my teacher said.

Can I say that for one line that passes through the diffraction grating d is 1/300 mm ?
 
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  • #2
Sure you can. This is why he gave you this information.
 
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nasu said:
Sure you can. This is why he gave you this information.
@nasu Thank you.
 

FAQ: Balmer series experiment

What is the Balmer series?

The Balmer series is a set of spectral lines that represent the transitions of electrons in a hydrogen atom from higher energy levels to the second energy level (n=2). These transitions result in the emission of visible light, which can be observed as specific wavelengths corresponding to different colors.

How is the Balmer series related to the hydrogen atom?

The Balmer series specifically deals with the electronic transitions of hydrogen atoms. When an electron in a hydrogen atom falls from a higher energy level (n ≥ 3) to the second energy level (n=2), it emits a photon of light. The wavelengths of these emitted photons correspond to the visible spectrum, which is why the Balmer series is significant in spectroscopy.

What are the visible wavelengths of the Balmer series?

The visible wavelengths of the Balmer series include four prominent lines: H-alpha (656.3 nm, red), H-beta (486.1 nm, blue-green), H-gamma (434.0 nm, blue), and H-delta (410.2 nm, violet). These lines are part of the visible spectrum and can be observed in the light emitted by hydrogen gas when it is excited.

How can the Balmer series be experimentally observed?

The Balmer series can be experimentally observed using a hydrogen discharge tube, where hydrogen gas is ionized and emits light when electrons transition between energy levels. This emitted light can then be analyzed using a spectrometer, which disperses the light into its constituent wavelengths, allowing for the identification of the Balmer lines.

What is the significance of the Balmer series in science?

The Balmer series is significant in both theoretical and experimental physics as it provides insights into the quantized nature of atomic energy levels. It also serves as a fundamental example in the study of atomic spectra, helping to validate models of atomic structure, such as the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom.

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