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Rydberg Wavelength Calculator

Photon wavelength for hydrogen-line transitions.

Compute the wavelength of light emitted (or absorbed) by a hydrogen-like atom transitioning between two principal quantum levels n₁ and n₂, using the Rydberg formula.

Dr. Helena Ortiz By Dr. Helena Ortiz
Published Last reviewed 1 min read

Inputs

Results

Enter values and click Calculate to see results.
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How to use this calculator

  1. Fill in the inputs above using the units you already have.
  2. Values update automatically as you type — no submit button needed.
  3. Hover any result row for the underlying formula and intermediate values.

Formula

1/λ = R · Z² · (1/n₁² − 1/n₂²), R = 1.0974 × 10⁷ m⁻¹.

In depth

Compute the wavelength of light emitted (or absorbed) by a hydrogen-like atom transitioning between two principal quantum levels n₁ and n₂, using the Rydberg formula.