Solution
Related Formula
Eₙ = -(13.6)/(n²) ~eV Number of transitions = (n(n - 1))/(2)Core Logic
First, identify the principal quantum number n corresponding to the energy -0.85 ~eV. Then, use the combinatorics formula to find the total possible downward emission transitions.
Step 1: Find Quantum State
Eₙ = -(13.6)/(n²) -0.85 = -(13.6)/(n²) n² = (13.6)/(0.85) = 16n = 4
Step 2: Calculate Transitions
Maximum number of transitions from n=4 to lower levels (n=3, 2, 1):
= (n(n - 1))/(2) = (4(4 - 1))/(2) = (12)/(2) = 6Pattern Recognition
Energy states in Hydrogen are heavily standardized: n=1 arrow -13.6, n=2 arrow -3.4, n=3 arrow -1.51, n=4 arrow -0.85. Recognize -0.85 ~eV as state 4 immediately.
Chapter Mix
Class 12 Physics: Atoms