1. What Does Rydberg Equation Calculate

The Rydberg equation calculates the wavelength of spectral lines in many chemical elements, particularly hydrogen. It predicts the wavelength of light resulting from an electron moving between energy levels in an atom.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Rydberg equation:

Where:

• \( \lambda \) — Wavelength of emitted light (meters)
• \( R \) — Rydberg constant (1.097 × 10⁷ m^-1)
• \( n_1 \) — Principal quantum number of lower energy level
• \( n_2 \) — Principal quantum number of higher energy level

Explanation: The equation describes the relationship between the energy levels of an electron in a hydrogen atom and the wavelength of light emitted when the electron transitions between these levels.

3. Importance of Wavelength Calculation

Details: The Rydberg equation is fundamental in atomic physics and spectroscopy, helping identify elements by their emission spectra and understand atomic structure.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the lower and higher energy levels as integers (n₂ > n₁). The default Rydberg constant is for hydrogen; adjust for other elements if needed.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the valid values for n₁ and n₂?
A: Both must be positive integers with n₂ > n₁. Typically n₁ ≥ 1 and n₂ ≥ 2.

Q2: Why does the calculator show results in nanometers?
A: Nanometers (nm) are a more convenient unit for visible and ultraviolet light wavelengths (typical range 100-1000 nm).

Q3: Is the Rydberg constant the same for all elements?
A: No, the value differs slightly for different elements due to nuclear mass effects. The default value is for hydrogen.

Q4: What spectral series does this correspond to?
A: Different n₁ values correspond to different series (Lyman n₁=1, Balmer n₁=2, Paschen n₁=3, etc.).

Q5: Can this calculate energy of the photon?
A: Yes, using E = hc/λ where h is Planck's constant and c is speed of light.