Balmer and Lyman Series

[Andrew Dao 3C]

On sapling they said that the Balmer series involves visible light and occurs when H atoms go from an excited state to n = 2, and the Lyman series involves UV light and occurs when H atoms go from excited to n = 1. Is this a good way to distinguish the two series, or should I use the actual wavelength numbers?

[Trevor_Ramsey_3H]

I just remember that Lyman is n=1 and is typically around 90-120 nm and Balmer is n=2 and typically around like 450-600nm. As long as you know these it won't be hard to discern when to use this.

[Charmaine Ng 2D]

It could be useful to know the actual wavelength numbers, but from what Dr. Lavelle has taught and tested us on so far, it seems like he just wants to to distinguish them based on their energy levels! So I wouldn't worry too much about memorizing the actual numbers

[705340227]

I think normally you could calculate the frequency or wavelength based on what the problem gives you so it probably isn't necessary to memorize them!

[Sam Wentzel 1F 14B]

Knowing the ranges is fairly important, but usually the jump from principle quantum number is noted in the problem.

[jasmineculilap_3F]

I remember that Lyman is around 100nm while Balmer is around 400-600nm, but knowing the energy levels is important for equations.

[Bella Bursulaya 3G]

Well, the actual wavelength number will depend on the n value, so yes, the n value determines which series you use.