Rydberg Constant
A fundamental physical constant expressing the limiting wavenumber of atomic spectral lines for infinitely heavy nuclei.
Governing formula
R_∞ = (m_e e⁴) / (8 ε₀² h³ c) ≈ 1.097373 × 10⁷ m⁻¹
SI unit
m⁻¹ (Reciprocal Meters)
In depth
The Rydberg constant links fundamental atomic constants (electron mass, charge, Planck's constant, speed of light) to optical spectroscopy, serving as one of the most precisely measured constants in physics.
Examples in the real world
Calculating the precise wavelengths of hydrogen emission and absorption spectrum lines.