Question

the figure shows different possible transitions of electrons as they move from higher energy states to lower energy states. which transition will produce the spectrum lowest wavelength in this elements atomic spectrum? a a b b c c d d

Explanation:

Step1: Recall energy - wavelength relation

Energy of a photon is given by $E = h
u=\frac{hc}{\lambda}$, where $h$ is Planck's constant, $
u$ is frequency, $c$ is speed of light and $\lambda$ is wavelength. So, $\lambda=\frac{hc}{E}$, which means shorter wavelength corresponds to higher energy.

Step2: Identify highest - energy transition

The energy of an electron transition is given by $\Delta E=E_{higher}-E_{lower}$. The greater the difference between the higher and lower energy levels, the higher the energy of the emitted photon. Transition D has the largest energy - level difference among A, B, C and D.

Answer:

D. D