Physics 9702 · AS & A Level · Energy levels in atoms and line spectra

Energy levels in atoms and line spectra — practice question

Fig. 8.1 presents the four lowest energy levels of an electron in an isolated atom. Fig. 8.2 presents the emission-spectrum lines of the atom for the electron transitions from $n = 3$ to $n = 1$ and from $n = 4$ to $n = 1$.
(a)[2]

Using photons in your explanation, explain why each of these transitions corresponds to just one frequency of electromagnetic radiation.

(b(i))[2]

On Fig. 8.2, add a line for the electron transition from $n = 2$ to $n = 1$. Mark this line A.

(b(ii))[2]

On Fig. 8.2, add a line for the electron transition from $n = 3$ to $n = 2$. Mark this line B.

(c)[2]

The frequency of the radiation represented by line A is $f_A$. The frequency of the radiation represented by line B is $f_B$. The energy of the ground state ($n = 1$) is $E_1$. Find an expression, in terms of $f_A$, $f_B$, $E_1$ and the Planck constant $h$, for the energy $E_3$ of the energy level $n = 3$.

Worked solution & mark scheme

This 8-mark question has a full step-by-step worked solution and mark scheme. One marking point: one photon is emitted with energy equal to the energy difference between the levels

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