Energy gaps between orbitals in different elements

[mahela007]

Will the energy gap between the n=1 and n= 3 orbitals be the same in different elements? For example, will the n=1 to n=3 energy gap in hydrogen be equal to that of helium? (it isn't right?)

[swansont]

Will the energy gap between the n=1 and n= 3 orbitals be the same in different elements? For example, will the n=1 to n=3 energy gap in hydrogen be equal to that of helium? (it isn't right?)

 

No, it depends on the number of protons, because that directly affects the electrostatic interaction. To a much lesser extent it will depend on the number of neutrons, because that affects the charge distribution in the nucleus. (all of this without getting into QM)

[mahela007]

thanks... (specially for not using QM ;-)