Question

Of the following transitions in the hydrogen atom, the one which gives an absorption line of maximum wavelength is:

• A. $n=1$ to $n=2$
• B. $n=3$ to $n=8$
• C. $n=2$ to $n=1$
• D. $n=8$ to $n=3$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $n=1$ to $n=2$

Absorption line in the spectra arise when energy is absorbed i.e., electron shifts from lower to higher orbit. Maximum wavelength means minimum energy so, the transition involving minimum energy is the right option.