Electromagnetic Radiation and Atomic Spectra

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to electromagnetic radiations and atomic spectra as outlined in the lecture notes.

Wavelength (λ)

Distance between two successive crests or troughs in a light wave, generally measured in nanometers.

Frequency (v)

Number of successive wave cycles (crests or troughs) that pass a point in a unit of time, measured in hertz (Hz).

Monochromatic Radiations

Radiation made of a single wavelength.

Polychromatic Radiations

Radiation made of more than one wavelength.

Spectra

The separation of polychromatic radiation into its component wavelengths.

Continuous Spectra

Separated wavelengths that appear in a continuous manner, like a rainbow.

Line Spectra

A spectrum containing radiations of only specific wavelengths.

Bohr's Postulates

Only specific orbits corresponding to definite energies are permitted for an electron.

Photon

A quantum of energy emitted or absorbed when an electron changes energy states.

Ground State

The lowest energy state for the hydrogen atom, where n = 1.

Excited State

Any energy state above the ground state corresponds to n values greater than 1.

Rydberg Constant (R₁)

A constant used in the formula for energy levels of the electron, equal to 2.180 X 10-18 J.