The fact that wavelengths of the four lines in the Balmer series fit a regular pattern was evidence supporting the idea that
A)electrons could exist in only four energy states in a hydrogen atom.
B)there must be four electrons in each hydrogen atom.
C)electrons could only gain or lose specific amounts of energy in hydrogen atoms.
D)electrons were continuously losing energy.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that the wavelengths of the four lines in the Balmer series fit a regular pattern suggested that the electrons in hydrogen atoms could only gain or lose specific amounts of energy, and not any arbitrary amount. This supported the idea of quantization of energy levels in atoms, which was a key concept in the development of the modern theory of atomic structure. Choices A, B, and D are not supported by this evidence.

The Fact That Wavelengths of the Four Lines in the Balmer