Question

Which principal energy level change by the electron of a hydrogen atom will cause the greatest amount of energy to be absorbed?

(A) n= 2 to n=4
(B) n= 2 to n= 5
(C) n= 4 to n= 2
(D) n= 5 to n = 2

Answer 1

The principal energy level change by the electron of a hydrogen atom that will cause the greatest amount of energy to be absorbed is (B) n = 2 to n = 5.

Step-by-step explanation:

The electron of a hydrogen atom can change its principal energy level by absorbing or emitting photons. The energy absorbed or emitted during these transitions is given by the difference in energy between the initial and final energy levels. According to the information provided, the greatest amount of energy will be absorbed when the electron changes from a higher energy level (n = 2 or n = 5) to a lower energy level (n = 4 or n = 2). Therefore, the answer is (B) n = 2 to n = 5, as this transition involves a larger energy difference.