Question

The number of spectral lines emitted by atomic hydrogen that is in the 4th energy level is:

• A. 6
• B. 3
• C. 4
• D. 1

Hint:

For atomic hydrogen, the number of spectral lines emitted from a particular energy level can be found using the formula for possible transitions between energy levels. The total number of transitions is the sum of transitions from higher to lower levels.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The possible transitions for an electron in the 4th energy level are: \[ n = 4 \quad \text{to} \quad n = 3, 2, 1 \] \[ n = 3 \quad \text{to} \quad n = 2, 1 \] \[ n = 2 \quad \text{to} \quad n = 1 \] The total number of possible transitions is 6. These transitions lead to the emission of spectral lines. Thus, the correct answer is option (1).