The transition in atomic hydrogen that gives the longest wavelength in the visible spectrum is
A) n = 4 to n = 1.
B) n = 3 to n = 1.
C) n = 2 to n = 1.
D) n = 4 to n = 2.
E) n = 3 to n = 2.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The transition that gives the longest wavelength in the visible spectrum is the one with the smallest energy difference according to the formula $E = \frac{hc}{\lambda}$, where $E$ is the energy, $h$ is Planck's constant, $c$ is the speed of light, and $\lambda$ is the wavelength. The transition from $n = 3$ to $n = 2$ (Balmer series) falls within the visible spectrum and has the smallest energy difference among the given options, thus producing the longest wavelength.

The Transition in Atomic Hydrogen That Gives the Longest Wavelength