Accurately calculate the photon energy, wavelength, and frequency emitted or absorbed by any hydrogenic atom using our free Rydberg Formula Calculator. Simply input the atomic number (Z) and the initial (n₁) and final (n₂) principal quantum numbers to get instant results. Ideal for physics students, researchers, and educators, simplifying complex atomic transitions and spectroscopic calculations.
Formula:
The Rydberg formula is used to calculate the wavelength of light emitted or absorbed when an electron moves between energy levels in a hydrogenic atom (an atom with only one electron). The formula is:
1/λ = R∞ * Z2 * (1/n₁2 - 1/n₂2)
Where:
- λ (lambda) = Wavelength of the emitted or absorbed photon (in meters)
- R∞ = Rydberg constant (approximately 1.0973731568160 × 107 m-1)
- Z = Atomic number of the hydrogenic atom (e.g., 1 for Hydrogen, 2 for He+, 3 for Li2+)
- n₁ = Principal quantum number of the lower energy level (final state for emission, initial state for absorption)
- n₂ = Principal quantum number of the higher energy level (initial state for emission, final state for absorption). Note: n₂ > n₁ for emission.
Additionally, we can calculate the Frequency (ν) and Energy (E):
- ν = c / λ (where c is the speed of light, approx. 2.99792458 × 108 m/s)
- E = h * ν (where h is Planck's constant, approx. 6.62607015 × 10-34 J·s)