Physics

Rydberg Equation Calculator

Find the wavelength of a hydrogen spectral line.

Calculated Output

Wavelength (nm) 656.11

Formula: 1/λ = R·(1/n₁² − 1/n₂²)

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Values used:

2. Lower level n₁ = 2

3. Upper level n₂ = 3

5. Wavelength = 656.11nm

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The math behind it

1/λ = R·(1/n₁² − 1/n₂²), with the Rydberg constant R ≈ 1.097 × 10⁷ /m.

n₁ = 2, n₂ = 3 (H-alpha) → about 656.3 nm (red).

What is the Balmer series?

Transitions down to n₁ = 2, which fall in visible light.