One of the emission lines described by the original version of Balmer's formula has wavelength $377 \mathrm {~nm}$ What is the value of n in Balmer's formula that gives this emission line?
A)11
B)12
C)13
D)14

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Balmer formula is given by:$$\frac{1}{\lambda} = R_H \left(\frac{1}{2^2} - \frac{1}{n^2}\right)$$where $R_H$ is the Rydberg constant and $n$ is the principal quantum number of the upper energy level.For the emission line with wavelength $377 \mathrm {~nm}$, we have:$$\frac{1}{377 \mathrm {~nm}} = R_H \left(\frac{1}{2^2} - \frac{1}{n^2}\right)$$Solving for $n$, we get:$$n = 11$$

One of the Emission Lines Described by the Original Version 377 nm377 \mathrm {~nm}377 nm

One of the Emission Lines Described by the Original Version $377 \mathrm {~nm}$