Spectral Line Series for Atomic Hydrogen

Introduction

In atomic physics, the spectral lines of hydrogen are categorized into distinct series based on the transitions of electrons between different energy levels. Each series corresponds to a specific range of wavelengths or frequencies of light emitted or absorbed by hydrogen atoms. Understanding these series is fundamental in spectroscopy and various applications in astrophysics and quantum mechanics.

1. Balmer Series

• Description: The Balmer Series refers to the set of spectral lines associated with transitions of electrons from higher energy levels (n > 2) to the second energy level (n = 2). This series is in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum.
• Wavelength Range: The wavelengths of the Balmer series range from approximately 400 nm to 700 nm.
• Examples: The prominent lines of the Balmer series include the H-alpha line (656.3 nm), H-beta line (486.1 nm), H-gamma line (434.0 nm), and H-delta line (410.2 nm).
  • Recent Example: The H-alpha line is used in astrophysics to study the emission from hydrogen in nebulae and the chromosphere of the Sun.

2. Lyman Series

• Description: The Lyman Series involves transitions of electrons from higher energy levels to the first energy level (n = 1). This series falls in the ultraviolet region of the electromagnetic spectrum.
• Wavelength Range: The wavelengths of the Lyman series are typically in the range of 100 nm to 200 nm.
• Examples: The most prominent line is the Lyman-alpha line (121.6 nm).
  • Recent Example: Lyman-alpha observations are crucial for studying distant galaxies and the intergalactic medium.

3. Paschen Series

• Description: The Paschen Series corresponds to transitions where electrons fall from higher energy levels to the third energy level (n = 3). These lines are in the infrared region of the spectrum.
• Wavelength Range: The wavelengths of the Paschen series range from approximately 800 nm to 1,800 nm.
• Examples: The Paschen-alpha line (1875 nm) is the most prominent.
  • Recent Example: Paschen series lines are used in astronomical observations to study the environments around stars and in molecular clouds.

4. Brackett Series

• Description: The Brackett Series includes transitions where electrons move to the fourth energy level (n = 4) from higher levels. This series is also in the infrared region.
• Wavelength Range: The wavelengths of the Brackett series are from about 2,000 nm to 4,000 nm.
• Examples: The Brackett-alpha line (4,050 nm) is one of the notable lines in this series.
  • Recent Example: Brackett series lines help in understanding the properties of high-energy stars and the dynamics of interstellar gas.

5. Pfund Series

• Description: The Pfund Series involves transitions to the fifth energy level (n = 5) and is also in the infrared region.
• Wavelength Range: The wavelengths range from approximately 4,000 nm to 8,000 nm.
• Examples: The Pfund-alpha line (7,460 nm) is a key line in this series.
  • Recent Example: Pfund series lines are useful in studying the detailed structure of stellar atmospheres and the composition of interstellar dust.

6. Humphreys Series

• Description: The Humphreys Series corresponds to transitions to the sixth energy level (n = 6), and this series falls in the infrared range as well.
• Wavelength Range: The wavelengths are longer, ranging from approximately 8,000 nm to 20,000 nm.
• Examples: The Humphreys-alpha line is significant in this series.
  • Recent Example: This series contributes to the study of the faint and distant regions of the universe.

Conclusion

The spectral lines for atomic hydrogen are organized into several series based on the energy levels involved in electron transitions. These series include the Balmer, Lyman, Paschen, Brackett, Pfund, and Humphreys series. Each series covers different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum and has unique applications in astrophysics, quantum mechanics, and spectroscopy. For UPSC Mains aspirants, understanding these series is essential for comprehending the behavior of atomic hydrogen and its relevance in various scientific fields.