The n = 5 to n = 3 transition in the Bohr hydrogen atom corresponds to the ________ of a photon with a wavelength of ________ nm.
A)absorption, 657
B)absorption, 1280
C)emission, 657
D)emission, 1280
E)emission, 389

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Bohr model explains the electronic transitions or orbit changes in hydrogen atoms. When an electron jumps from the n = 5 to n = 3 energy level, it is a transition from higher to lower energy state, and hence, energy is emitted by the atom. Therefore, the correct answer is emission. To determine the wavelength of the emitted photon, we use the Rydberg formula:

1/λ = R (1/n₁² - 1/n₂²)

where λ is the wavelength, R is the Rydberg constant (1.0974 x 10^7 m^-1), n₁ is the initial energy level (n = 5), and n₂ is the final energy level (n = 3).

Substituting the values, we get:

1/λ = 1.0974 x 10^7 (1/5² - 1/3²)
λ = 1280 nm

Therefore, the correct answer is D: emission, 1280.

The N = 5 to N = 3 Transition in the Bohr