Consider the following spectral lines for atomic hydrogen : The correct arrangement of the above lines in ascending order of energy is :
- D < C < A < B
- A < B < C < D
- D < A < C < B
- C < D < B < A
Answer
(3) D < A < C < B
Solution
Energy of a line: E ( 1n12 - 1n22 )
A. Paschen (n1 = 3), first line n2 = 4: 19 - 116 = 7144 = 0.0486
B. Balmer (n1 = 2), second line n2 = 4: 14 - 116 = 316 = 0.1875
C. Paschen (n1 = 3), third line n2 = 6: 19 - 136 = 112 = 0.0833
D. Brackett (n1 = 4), fourth line n2 = 8: 116 - 164 = 364 = 0.0469
Ascending order of energy: D < A < C < B
Answer: (3)