Hydrogen Spectrum (Rydberg)

\frac{1}{\lambda} = R_H\left(\frac{1}{n_1^2} - \frac{1}{n_2^2}\right)

Predicts wavelengths of hydrogen spectral lines. n₁ = 1: Lyman, n₁ = 2: Balmer series.

Variables

Wavelength of emission

Allowed values: greater than 0

R_H

Rydberg constant

Allowed values: greater than 0

m⁻¹

n₁

Lower energy level

Allowed values: greater than 0, whole number

unitless

n₂

Upper energy level

Allowed values: greater than 0, whole number

unitless

Your notes

0/5000

Where this formula is listed

Modern Physics formulas, under Atomic Physics, alongside Bohr Radius, Hydrogen-like Atom Energy, Electron Orbital Radius and Moseley's Law.
In the modern physics list it comes after Bohr Energy Levels and before Hydrogen-like Atom Energy.
Modern Physics formula sheet, one of 41 formulas printed with symbol keys and SI units.
The full formula index, grouped by category and topic.

Common questions

What is the Hydrogen Spectrum (Rydberg) formula?

Hydrogen Spectrum (Rydberg) is written 1/λ = R_H (1/n₁² − 1/n₂²). Predicts wavelengths of hydrogen spectral lines. n₁ = 1: Lyman, n₁ = 2: Balmer series. It belongs to Modern Physics, under Atomic Physics.

What are the units in 1/λ = R_H (1/n₁² − 1/n₂²)?

In SI units, λ is wavelength of emission, measured in m; R_H is rydberg constant, measured in m⁻¹; n₁ is lower energy level (dimensionless); n₂ is upper energy level (dimensionless).