Allowed Transition from 2s^2 to 2p^2 in Hydrogen: Why is it Missing?

In summary, the selection rules for Hydrogen are conditions that must be met for an atom to transition between energy levels. These rules are significant in understanding the behavior of atoms and predicting spectral lines. The three main rules are conservation of energy and angular momentum, and parity must be conserved. While selection rules can be violated, they are generally followed. These rules are specific to Hydrogen and cannot be applied to other elements, but the principles of conservation still apply.
  • #1
barnflakes
156
4
Why is there no allowed transition from the [itex]2s^2 S_{\frac{1}{2}}[/itex] state to the [itex]2p^2 P_{\frac{3}{2}} [/itex] state in the attached image? It seems to fulfill the selection rules [itex]\Delta l = \pm 1 [/itex] and [itex]\Delta j = 0, \pm 1[/itex]. This is for electric dipole transitions by the way.
 

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  • #2
I guess that only optical transitions are shown in the diagram while this transition would be somewhere in the radio frequency region.
 

Related to Allowed Transition from 2s^2 to 2p^2 in Hydrogen: Why is it Missing?

1. What are selection rules for Hydrogen?

The selection rules for Hydrogen refer to the conditions that must be met for an atom of Hydrogen to undergo a transition from one energy level to another. These rules are based on the conservation of energy and angular momentum.

2. What is the significance of selection rules in Hydrogen?

The selection rules in Hydrogen are important because they help us understand the behavior of atoms and the emission and absorption of light. They also allow us to predict the wavelengths of spectral lines emitted by Hydrogen atoms.

3. What are the three main selection rules for Hydrogen transitions?

The three main selection rules for Hydrogen transitions are: 1) The change in energy level must be accompanied by a change in angular momentum of the atom, 2) The total angular momentum of the atom must remain constant, and 3) The transition must conserve parity (odd or even).

4. Can selection rules be violated in Hydrogen transitions?

Yes, selection rules can be violated in certain cases, but they are generally followed due to the high probability of their occurrence. For example, in very rare cases, a forbidden transition may occur due to fluctuations in the atom's environment.

5. How do selection rules for Hydrogen differ from other elements?

The selection rules for Hydrogen are specific to this element and cannot be applied to other elements. Each element has its own unique selection rules based on its atomic structure and energy levels. However, the general principles of conservation of energy and angular momentum still apply.

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