Electron Transition & Photon Emission in Hydrogen Atom

In summary, the conversation discusses the process of an electron transitioning from a lower energy state to a higher energy state in a hydrogen atom and the emission of a photon. The level of knowledge on this topic varies and may involve quantum field theory. The possibility of this occurring is questioned and it is clarified that the transition must actually be from a higher to lower energy state for the emission of a photon.
  • #1
manimaran1605
60
0
How an electron transition from lower energy state to higher energy state in hydrogen atom emits a photon?
 
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  • #2
What is your level of knowledge? There are many possible answers to this question, but unless you know something about quantum field theory, it will probably stay at the level of "something is moving, so it emits radiation".
 
  • #3
There is noway this can happen...where did you read that? the photon would need to have negative energy... except for if you mean absorb?
 
  • #4
Oh wait, lower to higher? No, that does not work. I read "higher to lower", as that is a common question.
 

Related to Electron Transition & Photon Emission in Hydrogen Atom

1. What is an electron transition in a hydrogen atom?

An electron transition refers to the movement of an electron from one energy level to another within a hydrogen atom. This transition can happen when the electron gains or loses energy, resulting in the emission or absorption of a photon of light.

2. How does the energy of a photon emitted by a hydrogen atom relate to the electron transition?

The energy of a photon emitted by a hydrogen atom is directly related to the energy difference between the initial and final energy levels of the electron transition. This energy difference determines the wavelength and frequency of the emitted photon, according to the equation E=hf, where E is energy, h is Planck's constant, and f is frequency.

3. What is the significance of the Balmer series in electron transitions in a hydrogen atom?

The Balmer series refers to a specific set of electron transitions in a hydrogen atom, where the electron moves from higher energy levels to the second energy level. This results in the emission of visible light with specific wavelengths that correspond to the different lines in the Balmer series. This series was crucial in the development of quantum mechanics and the understanding of atomic structure.

4. Can electron transitions in a hydrogen atom occur in the absence of external energy?

Yes, electron transitions in a hydrogen atom can occur spontaneously without the input of external energy. This is known as spontaneous emission. However, external energy can also induce electron transitions, such as in the case of stimulated emission, where photons of the same frequency as the transition are introduced to the atom.

5. How does the concept of electron transitions in a hydrogen atom relate to everyday applications?

The understanding of electron transitions in a hydrogen atom has led to numerous practical applications in our daily lives. Some examples include the use of lasers, which rely on stimulated emission, and the development of atomic clocks, which utilize the precise energy levels and transitions in hydrogen atoms to keep accurate time.

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