Calculating Width of One-Dimensional Box for Photon Emission

In summary, the question asks for the width of a one-dimensional box in which an electron is confined, in order for the energy difference between the n=2 and n=1 energy levels to match the energy of a 122nm photon. The solution involves using the equation for the energies of a particle in a one-dimensional box and equating the energy difference to the energy of the photon.
  • #1
Dinno
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Homework Statement



When a hydrogen atom undergoes a transition from the n=2 state to the n=1 level, a photon
with [tex]\lambda[/tex]=122nm is emitted.

a)If the atom is modeled as an electron in a one-dimensional box, what is the width of the box in order for the n=2 to n=1 transition to correspond to emission of a photon of this energy?


Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



Do not know what equations to use to solve this problem
 
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  • #2
What is the expression that gives the energies of a particle in a one-dimensional box? Start from there. Match the energy difference from n =2 to n = 1 to the energy of the 122 nm photon.
 

Related to Calculating Width of One-Dimensional Box for Photon Emission

1. What is a one-dimensional box?

A one-dimensional box is a theoretical model used in quantum mechanics to represent the confinement of a particle within a limited space. It is often used to study the behavior of photons, which are particles of light.

2. Why is it important to calculate the width of a one-dimensional box for photon emission?

Calculating the width of a one-dimensional box is important because it helps us understand how the confinement of a photon affects its energy and properties. It also allows us to predict the likelihood of photon emission from the box.

3. How do you calculate the width of a one-dimensional box for photon emission?

The width of a one-dimensional box can be calculated using the formula: L = (n * λ)/2, where L is the width of the box, n is the number of nodes (or energy levels) in the box, and λ is the wavelength of the photon.

4. What is the significance of the number of nodes in the calculation of the width of a one-dimensional box?

The number of nodes, n, represents the energy levels that a photon can occupy within the box. This value determines the possible states of the photon and affects its energy and probability of emission from the box.

5. Can the width of a one-dimensional box change?

Yes, the width of a one-dimensional box can change depending on the energy level of the photon and the wavelength of the emitted light. As the photon gains energy, the number of nodes increases, resulting in a wider box. Similarly, a shorter wavelength of emitted light corresponds to a wider box.

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