Q101 / 150 · MHT CET 2025 (20 Apr Shift 1) · Physics

In hydrogen spectrum, the ratio of wavelengths of the last line of Lyman series and that of the last line of Balmer series is

  • A
    $1$
  • B
    $0.5$
  • Correct answer
    C
    $0.25$
  • D
    $0 \cdot 2$

Solution

The Rydberg formula for hydrogen spectral lines is given by $\frac{1}{\lambda} = R \left( \frac{1}{n_f^2} - \frac{1}{n_i^2} \right)$ where $R$ is the Rydberg constant, $n_f$ is the final quantum number, and $n_i$ is the initial quantum number.

For series limit transitions, $n_i = \infty$, simplifying the formula to $\frac{1}{\lambda} = \frac{R}{n_f^2}$.

The Lyman series limit corresponds to $n_f = 1$, giving $\lambda_L = \frac{1}{R}$.

The Balmer series limit corresponds to $n_f = 2$, giving $\lambda_B = \frac{4}{R}$.

The ratio of wavelengths is $\frac{\lambda_L}{\lambda_B} = \frac{\frac{1}{R}}{\frac{4}{R}} = \frac{1}{4} = 0.25$.

Final answer: $\boxed{0.25}$

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'C'.

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