How do the spectra of the two isotopes ¹H and ²H compare? A)These isotopes each have one proton, which makes them both hydrogen, so they have identical spectra. B)The wavelengths for the heavier isotope are very slightly longer than those for the lighter isotope. C)The wavelengths for the heavier isotope are very slightly shorter than those for the lighter isotope. D)Since the nuclei are different, the two spectra differ greatly.

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Isotopes differ in their number of neutrons, not their number of protons, so both ¹H and ²H are not hydrogen. However, since their atomic structures are very similar except for the difference in mass, the spectra of the two isotopes would be expected to be very similar. The only difference would be a small shift in the wavelengths, with the heavier isotope having slightly longer wavelengths due to the greater mass of its nuclei.

How Do the Spectra of the Two Isotopes 1H and 2H

How Do the Spectra of the Two Isotopes ¹H and ²H