A simplified model atom has four bound electronic energy levels with values (in electron-volts):
Level 1: −3.2 eV
Level 2: −1.4 eV
Level 3: −0.60 eV
Level 4: 0 eV (taken as the ionization threshold)
Assume the atom is initially in an excited state and can undergo radiative transitions among these levels.
(a) Determine the wavelength of the photon that would be emitted if the atom makes a direct transition from Level 3 to Level 2.
(b) Several different downward transitions are possible among the bound states. Identify the transition that would produce the longest-wavelength photon and calculate that wavelength.
(c) A photon of wavelength 700 nm is incident on an atom in the Level 2 state. Indicate whether this photon can be absorbed in a single transition, and justify your answer using energy considerations.