Rydberg equation

[305115396]

In the video modules, professor Lavelle said that the Rydberg equation is v=-R [(1/n^2) - (1/n^2) , but the textbook says that the correct equation is v= R [(1/n^2) - (1/n^2). Why did professor Lavelle say to add a negative to the Rydberg constant and which one is correct?

[Danny Zhang 4L]

They are both correct. However, professor Lavelle prefers using negative signs to clearly indicate that higher n results in higher energy.

[Shibhon_Shepard]

wait, how does a negative indicate a higher state? is it because electrons are negative and as you have more it becomes more negative?

[Danny Zhang 4L]

Given that the energy is found through -(hR/n^2), increasing n would indicate greater energy as the result becomes less negative. If we use hR/n^2 to find the energy instead, increasing n would result in lower energy values, which is not correct.