R is the Rydberg constant which is equal to 1.096776 x 10^7 m^-1. Wavelength is 1.094 x 10^-6 m.
So the equation becomes,
[tex]\frac{1}{1.094 \ x \ 10^{-6} }=1.096776 \ x \ 10^{7}( \frac{1}{ n_{1}^{2} }-\frac{1}{ n_{2}^{2} })[/tex]
This is trial and error. Our basis should be: n2>n1 and both are whole numbers. According to quantum theory, electrons jump in discrete energies, so there is no in-between. Energy levels must be in a specific quantum number. Then, in order to absorb light, the photon must be able to go to a higher energy level.
