* Balmer Series: This series of spectral lines in the hydrogen atom is characterized by electron transitions that end in the n = 2 energy level.
* Energy Levels: The higher the energy level (n), the further the electron is from the nucleus.
* Wavelength and Energy: A transition from a higher energy level to a lower one releases energy, and this energy is emitted as a photon. The higher the energy difference, the shorter the wavelength of the emitted photon.
Calculation
You can use the Rydberg formula to calculate the wavelength:
1/λ = R(1/2² - 1/n²)
Where:
* λ is the wavelength
* R is the Rydberg constant (approximately 1.097 x 10⁷ m⁻¹)
* n is the initial energy level (in this case, approaching infinity)
As n approaches infinity, the term 1/n² approaches zero. Therefore, the equation simplifies to:
1/λ = R/4
Solving for λ, we get:
λ = 4/R
Plugging in the value for R:
λ ≈ 364.6 nm
Therefore, the shortest wavelength radiation in the Balmer series is approximately 364.6 nanometers. This corresponds to the ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum.