Question:easy

If the velocity of an electron in the first Bohr's orbit of H-atom is x $ms^{-1}$, then the velocity (in $ms^{-1}$) of an electron in the fourth Bohr's orbit of the same atom is:

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Velocity in a Bohr orbit decreases as the principal quantum number $n$ increases ($v \propto 1/n$).
Updated On: Jun 10, 2026
  • $x/2$
  • $x/4$
  • $x/6$
  • $x/5$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Recall the speed rule.
In the Bohr model, the speed of the electron in the $n$-th orbit is $v_n = \dfrac{Z e^2}{2 \varepsilon_0 h n}$. The only thing that changes from orbit to orbit here is the $n$ in the bottom, so speed falls as $n$ rises.

Step 2: Write it as a simple proportion.
Since everything else stays fixed for the same atom, we can say $v_n \propto \dfrac{1}{n}$, or simply $v_n = \dfrac{v_1}{n}$.

Step 3: Put in the first orbit value.
We are told the speed in the first orbit is $x$. So $v_1 = x$.

Step 4: Move to the fourth orbit.
Here $n = 4$, so \[ v_4 = \frac{v_1}{4} = \frac{x}{4}. \]

Step 5: Sense check.
A higher orbit means the electron sits farther out and moves slower. Going from $n=1$ to $n=4$ should cut the speed a lot, and dividing by 4 fits that picture.

Step 6: State the answer.
The speed in the fourth orbit is one quarter of the first.
\[ \boxed{x/4} \]
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