1. What is the Balmer Formula?

The Balmer formula calculates the wavelengths of the spectral lines in the hydrogen atom's Balmer series. It describes the transition of electrons from higher energy levels to the second energy level (n=2).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Balmer formula:

Where:

• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength (meters)
• \( R \) — Rydberg constant (1.097 × 10⁷ m⁻¹)
• \( n \) — Principal quantum number of the higher energy level (n ≥ 3)

Explanation: The formula calculates the inverse wavelength of light emitted when an electron transitions from energy level n to level 2 in a hydrogen atom.

3. Importance of Balmer Series

Details: The Balmer series is particularly important because its spectral lines fall in the visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum, making them easily observable and measurable in laboratory settings.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the quantum number n (must be an integer ≥3). The calculator will compute the corresponding wavelength in nanometers for the Balmer series transition.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the first few wavelengths in the Balmer series?
A: For n=3: 656.3 nm (Hα), n=4: 486.1 nm (Hβ), n=5: 434.0 nm (Hγ), n=6: 410.2 nm (Hδ)

Q2: Why is n limited to values ≥3?
A: The Balmer series specifically describes transitions to the n=2 level from higher levels (n=3,4,5,...)

Q3: What is the Rydberg constant?
A: The Rydberg constant (1.097×10⁷ m⁻¹) is a fundamental physical constant related to atomic spectra and quantum mechanics.

Q4: Can this formula be used for other elements?
A: The basic form applies to hydrogen-like atoms (single electron atoms), but with modified Rydberg constants for different elements.

Q5: What is the significance of the Balmer series?
A: The Balmer series played a crucial role in the development of quantum mechanics and our understanding of atomic structure.