The dissociation energy is the energy required to separate the two atoms in a diatomic molecule in their ground state. If the dissociation energy of molecular oxygen is 7.2 eV, then calculate the maximum wavelength of light from the Sun that can break apart atmospheric O₂. A) 1.7 × 10^-7 nm B) 1.7 × 10^-8 m C) 1.7 × 10^-9 m D) 1.7 × 10^-7 m E) 1.7 × 10² m

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The energy of a photon is given by E = hc/λ, where h is Planck's constant and c is the speed of light. Solving for λ gives λ = hc/E. Substituting h = 4.135667696 × 10^-15 eV·s, c = 3 × 10^8 m/s, and E = 7.2 eV, we find λ ≈ 1.7 × 10^-7 m.

The Dissociation Energy Is the Energy Required to Separate the Two