Calculating H Energy Levels

[Janis 3B]

Hi! Just wanted to ask, why do we get negative values when calculating hydrogen energy levels in the En = -hR/n^2 equation, like can electrons have negative energy?

[905994971]

Electrons that are not bound have an energy state of zero. Therefore, the negative energy that is calculated represents that energy needs to be added in order to release the bond/return the electron to having an energy state of zero. Hope this helps!

[RaghuP]

when you use that equation, you will get a negative answer. The more negative the energy, the "easier" or more stable the electron is around the atom. Therefore, electron in n=1 are more negative than electrons in n=2,3, and so on. That also explain how energy is released when electrons move down energy levels, the energy difference is the energy emitted.