Question

In which of the following spectral region Balmer series lines are observed for atomic hydrogen

• A. Visible
• B. Ultraviolet
• C. Microwave
• D. Infrared
• E. Radiowave

Hint:

A helpful mnemonic: "Balmer is visible because we can 'see' the 'Bal'."

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The atomic spectrum of hydrogen consists of several series of spectral lines, named after their discoverers. Each series corresponds to electronic transitions from higher energy levels to a specific lower energy level.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The different spectral series for the hydrogen atom are defined by the principal quantum number (\(n_1\)) of the final energy level to which the electron transitions.

Lyman Series: Transitions from \(n_2 = 2, 3, 4, ...\) to \(n_1 = 1\). These lines fall in the Ultraviolet (UV) region.

Balmer Series: Transitions from \(n_2 = 3, 4, 5, ...\) to \(n_1 = 2\). These lines fall in the Visible region of the electromagnetic spectrum. This is why the lines of the hydrogen spectrum visible to the naked eye belong to this series.

Paschen Series: Transitions from \(n_2 = 4, 5, 6, ...\) to \(n_1 = 3\). These lines fall in the Infrared (IR) region.

Brackett Series: Transitions from \(n_2 = 5, 6, 7, ...\) to \(n_1 = 4\). These lines fall in the Infrared (IR) region.

Pfund Series: Transitions from \(n_2 = 6, 7, 8, ...\) to \(n_1 = 5\). These lines fall in the Infrared (IR) region.

The question specifically asks about the Balmer series, which corresponds to transitions to the n=2 level. These emissions produce photons with energies that correspond to visible light.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Balmer series lines for atomic hydrogen are observed in the Visible spectral region. This corresponds to option (A).