Ionization enthalpy of Na????

The question is problematic.

It is correct that the 1st ionization of Na involves transition of electron from n=3 to n=infinity.

However, Lyman series is the series of spectrum lines in hydrogen atomic emission spectrum. There is no Lyman series in the sodium atomic emission spectrum.

In hydrogen atom, all subshells in the same shell have the same energy level. Therefore, the hydrogen atomic emission spectrum looks quite simple and some series of spectrum lines are formed.

Unlike hydrogen atom, all subshells in the same shell have different energy levels. Therefore, the sodium atomic emission spectrum looks very complicated and no apparent series of spectrum lines can be observed.

"Ist ionization of Na involves transition of electron from n=3 to n=infinity."-->Wrong

E = Ldv, but to explain v using Lyman series is never accurate!

2009-07-20 15:03:23 補充：
E.g.

Argon bears same number of electron shells [n=3] as sodium but the first ionization enthalpy of Argon is six times that of sodium.

This evidence shows IE of Na is obtained only by measuring the frequency of photons of radiation emitted with high-tech machine

2009-07-20 15:03:52 補充：
Lhv not Ldv