What is the Difference Between Lyman and Balmer Series?

The Lyman and Balmer series are two different sets of spectral lines in the hydrogen spectrum, resulting from electron transitions in a hydrogen atom. The main differences between the Lyman and Balmer series are:

1. Energy Levels: The Lyman series corresponds to electron transitions from higher energy levels to the n=1 energy level, while the Balmer series corresponds to electron transitions from higher energy levels to the n=2 energy level.
2. Wavelength Ranges: The Lyman series emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which has a wavelength range of about 100-91.2 nm. In contrast, the Balmer series emits visible light, with a wavelength range of about 400-700 nm.
3. Naming: The Lyman series is named after physicist Theodore Lyman, who discovered it, while the Balmer series is named after Johann Balmer, who discovered it.

In summary, the Lyman series involves electron transitions to the n=1 energy level and emits ultraviolet radiation, while the Balmer series involves electron transitions to the n=2 energy level and emits visible light.

Comparative Table: Lyman vs Balmer Series

The Lyman and Balmer series are two different sets of spectral lines in the hydrogen spectrum, resulting from electron transitions in a hydrogen atom. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the two series:

The Lyman series is a set of ultraviolet lines that fit the relationship with n_i = 1, while the Balmer series corresponds to electron transitions from higher energy levels to the n=2 energy level, emitting visible light.