Consider the following spectral lines for atomic hydrogen : A. First line of Paschen series B. Second line of Balmer series C. Third line of Paschen series D. Fourth line of Brackett series The correct arrangement of the above lines in ascending order of energy is :
Q. Consider the following spectral lines for atomic hydrogen :

A. First line of Paschen series

B. Second line of Balmer series

C. Third line of Paschen series

D. Fourth line of Brackett series

The correct arrangement of the above lines in ascending order of energy is :
A. D < C < A < B
B. A < B < C < D
C. D < A < C < B
D. C < D < B < A
Correct Answer: C

Explanation

Energy of a spectral line in hydrogen depends on transition:

\[ E = 13.6 \left( \frac{1}{n_f^2} - \frac{1}{n_i^2} \right) \]

Lower final level → greater energy.


Identify transitions:

Paschen series → nf = 3

Balmer series → nf = 2

Brackett series → nf = 4


A. First Paschen line: 4 → 3

C. Third Paschen line: 6 → 3

B. Second Balmer line: 4 → 2

D. Fourth Brackett line: 8 → 4


Energy increases when:

• Final level is smaller

• Initial level is higher (for same series)


Lowest energy → Brackett (nf = 4)

Then Paschen (nf = 3)

Highest energy → Balmer (nf = 2)


Within Paschen:

6 → 3 has more energy than 4 → 3


Ascending order:

D < A < C < B

Correct Option: C

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