[Mark S 2014]

Question: The emission spectrum of Hydrogen contains lines at the following frequencies 2.466, 2.923, 3.083 and 3.157 x10^15 Hz. Show that all lines fit the rydberg equation for frequency.

I know that these frequencies imply that this is the Lyman series, so N1 must be 1 in each case. I can't think of a way to find out how to prove these lines all fit the equation.

Any help would be much appreciated !

[mjc123]

Calculate the quantities (1-1/n²) where n = 2,3 4... Plot a graph with these values on the x axis and your frequencies on the y axis. Show that they fall on a straight line through the origin. Use the slope to calculate the Rydberg constant and compare with tabulated value.

[Mark S 2014]

Much appreciated, thanks alot.