When a hydrogen atom absorbs a photon that raises it to the n = 4 state,how many different energies are possible for the photon(s)that may be emitted as the atom eventually returns to the ground state?
A)3
B)4
C)5
D) The correct answer is not given.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

For an electron in the n = 4 state of hydrogen atom, there are five possible transitions to lower energy levels (n = 3, 2, 1, and two transitions to the n = 3 state). Each of these transitions can be accompanied by the emission of a photon with a different energy, given by the difference in energy levels E_n = -R_H/n^2, where R_H is the Rydberg constant. Therefore, there are five different energies for the photons that may be emitted.

When a Hydrogen Atom Absorbs a Photon That Raises It