paradox in the atomic theory!

[phillips101]

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If E ~ 1/n^2, then the "higher" energy levels have LOWER energy.

Why must chemists confuse students so?! 😕

 

[G1SG2]

If E ~ 1/n^2, then the "higher" energy levels have LOWER energy.

Why must chemists confuse students so?! 😕

E=13.6/n^2. It's actually E=-13.6/n^2, so the larger the n, the smaller the energy BUT because of the negative value, the energy is actually getting larger. For example, for n=1 it's -13.6 eV but for n=2 it's -3.40 eV (-13.6/2^2, which is -13.6/4). Which is higher? -3.40 eV.

 

[capn jazz]

In all likelihood, no one studying for the MCAT is going to discover an actual error in a chemical or physical theory. 😛

 

[phillips101]

Haha I'm trying to somehow get through the second chapter of TBR's atomic theory. THE most boring stuff I've ever read, gotta find SOME form of entertainment 🙂