Rydberg constant

Definition

The Rydberg constant is a physical constant related to the electromagnetic spectra of atoms. It represents the limiting value of the highest wavenumber (inverse wavelength) of any photon that can be emitted from the hydrogen atom.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The value of the Rydberg constant is approximately $1.097 \times 10^7 \text{m}^{-1}$.
2. It plays a crucial role in Bohr's model for calculating the wavelengths of spectral lines in hydrogen.
3. The Rydberg constant is derived from fundamental constants including the electron charge, Planck's constant, and the speed of light.
4. It is used to determine energy levels in hydrogen-like atoms using the formula $E_n = -R_H c h / n^2$ where $R_H$ is the Rydberg constant for hydrogen.
5. Johannes Rydberg, a Swedish physicist, first introduced this constant in empirical formulae before it was theoretically justified by Niels Bohr.

Review Questions

• What is the approximate value of the Rydberg constant?
• How does the Rydberg constant relate to Bohr's model of the hydrogen atom?
• Who introduced the concept of the Rydberg constant?

Related terms

Bohr Model: A theory for atomic structure proposing that electrons orbit around an atomic nucleus at discrete energy levels.

Spectral Lines:

Specific wavelengths of light emitted or absorbed by an element, often visible as lines in a spectrum.

Wavenumber: The number of waves per unit length, typically measured in inverse meters ($\text{m}^{-1}$).