The total energy of a hydrogen atom in its ground state is:
Correct answer: B. Negative
- A. Zero
- B. Negative
- C. Positive
- D. None of the above
Explanation
The energy of a hydrogen atom in its ground state is negative, approximately -13.6 eV. This negative value indicates that the electron is bound to the nucleus, requiring energy input to free it. The Schrödinger equation and the Bohr model both support this result, with the ground state corresponding to the principal quantum number n = 1. The other options are incorrect: a zero or positive energy would suggest the electron is not bound to the nucleus, contrary to the nature of a ground state electron.
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About Spectrum of Hydrogen
The hydrogen spectrum consists of discrete emission lines produced when electrons fall between quantised energy levels and release photons. Questions use the Rydberg equation, photon energy and wavelength, and identify the Lyman, Balmer, Paschen, Brackett and Pfund series, which differ from continuous spectra.
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