1. What is the Rydberg Formula?

The Rydberg formula calculates the energy difference between two energy levels (n₁ and n₂) in a hydrogen-like atom. It's fundamental in atomic physics for predicting spectral lines.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Rydberg formula:

Where:

• \( R \) — Rydberg constant (1.0974×10⁷ m⁻¹)
• \( h \) — Planck's constant (6.626×10⁻³⁴ J·s)
• \( c \) — Speed of light (2.998×10⁸ m/s)
• \( n_1 \) — Initial principal quantum number
• \( n_2 \) — Final principal quantum number

Explanation: The formula calculates the photon energy emitted or absorbed when an electron transitions between energy levels in a hydrogen atom.

3. Importance of Energy Level Calculations

Details: These calculations are essential for understanding atomic spectra, quantum mechanics, and the behavior of electrons in atoms.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter integer values for n₁ and n₂ where n₂ > n₁. The calculator provides results in both joules and electron volts.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical values for n₁ and n₂?
A: For visible spectrum (Balmer series), n₁=2 and n₂=3,4,5... For Lyman series (UV), n₁=1.

Q2: Why does the formula only work perfectly for hydrogen?
A: Hydrogen has one electron, making calculations exact. Multi-electron atoms require corrections for electron shielding.

Q3: What is the Rydberg constant?
A: It's a physical constant relating to atomic spectra, approximately 1.0974×10⁷ m⁻¹ for hydrogen.

Q4: Can this calculate wavelength?
A: Yes, wavelength can be found using λ = hc/E where E is the energy difference calculated here.

Q5: What are the units of the result?
A: The calculator provides results in both joules (J) and electron volts (eV) for convenience.