Chapter 5: Periodicity and the Electronic Structure of Atoms

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to the periodicity and electronic structure of atoms, focusing on wave and particle behavior of light, the photoelectric effect, and spectral analysis.

Wavelength (l)

The distance of one full wave cycle, measured from peak to peak or trough to trough.

Frequency (n)

The number of cycles that pass a point in one second, measured in Hertz (Hz).

Speed of Light (c)

The speed at which light travels in a vacuum, approximately 3.00 x 10^8 m/s.

Photoelectric Effect

The phenomenon where electrons are ejected from a metal surface when light of a certain threshold frequency is shined on it.

Photon

A quantized packet of energy associated with electromagnetic radiation, with energy defined by E = hn.

Emission Spectrum

The spectrum of light emitted by excited atoms, showing discrete lines corresponding to specific energy transitions.

Absorption Spectrum

The spectrum obtained when light passes through a substance, showing dark lines where specific wavelengths are absorbed.

Rydberg Equation

An equation that predicts the wavelengths of light emitted by hydrogen as electrons transition between energy levels.

Ground State (n=1)

The lowest energy state of an electron in an atom.

Excited State (n>1)

A higher energy state of an electron, further from the nucleus than the ground state.

Ionization Energy

The energy required to remove an electron from an atom in its ground state, moving it to infinity.

Bohr Model

A model that depicts electrons in fixed orbits around the nucleus; limited to hydrogen-like atoms.

Quantized Energy

The concept that energy exists in discrete packets (quanta) rather than a continuous spectrum.

Monochromatic Light

Light that consists of a single wavelength or color.

Spectrophotometer

An instrument used to measure the absorption and emission of light by a sample.

The Rydberg Constant (R)

A constant that appears in the Rydberg equation, approximately 1.096776 x 10^7 m^-1.