For which of the following transitions would a hydrogen atom emit the lowest energy photon?
A) n = 4 to n = 5
B) n = 5 to n = 2
C) n = 4 to n = 3
D) n = 3 to n = 1
E) n = 3 to n = 2

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The energy of a photon emitted during a transition is given by the difference in energy levels between the final and initial states. The energy levels of hydrogen atoms can be calculated by the formula En=-13.6/n^2 eV, where n is the principal quantum number. Using this formula, we find that the energy difference between n = 4 and n = 3 is smaller than the energy differences for the other transitions listed. Therefore, the transition from n = 4 to n = 3 would result in the emission of the lowest energy photon.

For Which of the Following Transitions Would a Hydrogen Atom