Which Spectral Series of Hydrogen Appears in the Visible Region?
The hydrogen atom has fascinated scientists for centuries, and its spectral series has played a pivotal role in uncovering the mysteries of quantum mechanics. Let’s explore the concept of hydrogen spectral series and answer a crucial MCQ step by step!
The MCQ Question
Which spectral series of hydrogen appears in the visible region?
A) Lyman series
B) Balmer series
C) Paschen series
D) Brackett series
We’ll analyze the options based on the theoretical background and arrive at the correct answer.
Theoretical Background: Hydrogen Spectral Series
Hydrogen, the simplest atom, exhibits discrete spectral lines due to electron transitions between energy levels. When an electron in a hydrogen atom transitions from a higher energy level (n2) to a lower energy level (n1 ), it emits or absorbs light of a specific wavelength. These transitions are grouped into spectral series, named after the scientists who discovered them.
Step 1: Analyze the Question
We are asked to identify which spectral series corresponds to the visible region.
Step 2: Examine Each Option
Option A: Lyman series
Appears in the ultraviolet region, so it’s not visible.
Option B: Balmer series
Appears in the visible region, producing bright spectral lines. Correct answer!
Option C: Paschen series
Falls in the infrared region, invisible to the human eye.
Option D: Brackett series
Also appears in the infrared region and is not visible.
Step 3: Select the Correct Answer
The Balmer series (Option B) is the spectral series of hydrogen that appears in the visible region.
Key Takeaways
The Balmer series is crucial for understanding the visible hydrogen spectrum.
The wavelengths of Balmer series lines correspond to electron transitions to the second energy level (n1=2).
This series provided early evidence of quantized energy levels in atoms, laying the groundwork for quantum mechanics.
Example Wavelengths in the Balmer Series:
Red (Hα): 656 nm
Blue-green (Hβ): 486nm
Blue (Hγ): 434nm
Violet (Hδ): 410nm
Fun Fact:
Johann Balmer discovered this series in 1885 using a simple mathematical formula, years before quantum mechanics emerged to explain it!
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