The hydrogen Balmer line Hβ has a wavelength of 486.1 nm in the laboratory. It is observed in a quasar at 2430.5 nm. What is the fractional change in wavelength or redshift z of this quasar

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

We can use the formula for redshift, given by:

z = (observed wavelength - rest wavelength)/(rest wavelength)

Plugging in the values given, we get:

z = (2430.5 nm - 486.1 nm)/486.1 nm
z = 4.98

Therefore, the fractional change in wavelength or redshift of this quasar is approximately 4.98, which is closest to answer choice D (4).

The Hydrogen Balmer Line Hβ Has a Wavelength of 486