rydberg constant
| rydberg constant | |
noun | |
| a wave number characteristic of the wave spectrum of each element [syn: rydberg] |
WordNet® 3.0, © 2006 by Princeton University.
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Encyclopedia Britannica
Encyclopedia
rydberg constant
(symbol R), fundamental constant of atomic physics that appears in the formulas developed (1890) by the Swedish physicist J. R. Rydberg, describing the wavelengths or frequencies of light in various series of related spectral lines, such as those emitted by hydrogen atoms. The value of this constant is based on the premise that the nucleus of the atom emitting light is exceedingly massive compared with a single orbiting electron (hence the infinity symbol ).
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Encyclopedia Britannica, 2008. Encyclopedia Britannica Online.
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Rydberg constant
is always a great word to know.
So is doohickey. Does it mean:
| a chattering or flighty, light-headed person. |
| a gadget; dingus; thingumbob. |
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