Practice question
Question
What is the energy difference between the \( n = 4 \) and \( n = 2 \) states in a hydrogen atom? (Use
\( E_n = -\frac{13.6}{n^2} \, \text{eV} \))
Explanation
**Quantization basis** de Broglie standing wave requires constructive interference, integer wavelengths in orbit, otherwise destructive, so only certain radii allowed r_n = n² a₀, a₀=0.53 Å, angular momentum L = n h/2π, de Broglie explains why orbits are stationary - electron wave closed on itself. E₄ = -0.85 eV , E₂ = -3.4 eV . Δ E = -0.85 - (-3.4) = 2.55 eV . Using E_n = -13.6/n² eV, r_n = n² a₀, L = n h/2π, R = R₀ A^¹/³, BE = Δm c² and 1 u = 931.5 MeV, evaluation yields 2.55 eV, consistent with Bohr model and nuclear binding energy systematics.
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