Rydberg Equation Calculator

Calculate Atomic Transitions with Precision

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Spectral Line Calculator

Calculate wavelength and energy for electron transitions in hydrogen-like atoms.

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Spectral Series Calculator

Calculate wavelengths for a complete spectral series.

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Understanding the Rydberg Equation

What is the Rydberg Equation?

The Rydberg equation describes the wavelengths of spectral lines in hydrogen-like atoms. It was first empirically discovered by Johann Balmer and later theoretically explained by Niels Bohr's atomic model.

Spectral Series

Major spectral series in hydrogen:

  • Lyman Series: Transitions to n=1 (UV region)
  • Balmer Series: Transitions to n=2 (visible region)
  • Paschen Series: Transitions to n=3 (IR region)
  • Brackett Series: Transitions to n=4 (IR region)

Physical Significance

The equation reveals:

  • Quantization of energy levels
  • Atomic energy structure
  • Electron transition rules
  • Spectroscopic patterns
  • Atomic emission spectra

Applications

The Rydberg equation is used in:

  • Astronomical spectroscopy
  • Chemical analysis
  • Atomic physics research
  • Material science
  • Quantum chemistry

Essential Rydberg Formulas

Rydberg Equation

1/λ = R(1/n₁² - 1/n₂²)

Energy Levels

E = -hcR/n²

Transition Energy

ΔE = hc/λ