PHYS 3330 Module 2.2

Atomic Spectra and X-rays

Learning Objectives

  • Explain electron transitions and how they result in the emission of characteristic photons and Auger electrons.
  • Understand and apply the photon model for electromagnetic radiation, including the relationship between photon energy and wavelength.
  • Identify and use the correct nomenclature for atomic shells.
  • Describe the process of x-ray production in an x-ray tube and understand the significance of different types of x-rays produced.

Quantized Energy Levels for Hydrogen-Like Ions

Quantized K-shell Energy Levels for Multi-electron Atoms

Practice!

Practice 2.2.1
Let’s say we have He (not ionized) in the 1st excited state:

How does the energy needed to remove this electron (n = 2) compare to the energy required to remove the n = 2 electron from He+?
A. More energy is required
B. An equal amount of energy is required
C. Less energy is required
Check your answer: C. Less energy is required

X-Ray Tubes

Practice!

Practice 2.2.2
What is the principal quantum number of the final state of an atom as it emits an Mβ line in an x-ray spectrum?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
E. 5
Check your answer: C) 3
Practice 2.2.3
What is the principal quantum number of the initial state of an atom as it emits an Mβ line in an x-ray spectrum?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
E. 5
Check your answer: E) 5

Practice!

Practice 2.2.4
Characteristic x-rays can be produced by bombarding targets with electrons. These x-rays occur when
A. electrons from higher shells fill the vacant lower shell
B. electrons fill the vacant valence shell
C. photons are emitted with energies on the order of 103 eV
D. photons are emitted with wavelengths on the order of 103 nm
Check your answer: A. electrons from higher shells fill the vacant lower shell
Practice 2.2.5
In an x-ray tube, as you increase the energy of the electrons striking the metal target, do the wavelengths of the characteristic x-rays increase, decrease, or remain constant?
A. increase
B. decrease
C. remain constant
Check your answer: C) remain constant

Discuss!