Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the relationship between the wavelength of a light wave and its energy?
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9. Quantum Mechanics
Wavelength and Frequency
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Which of the following compounds is most likely to absorb ultraviolet radiation in the range of 200 to 400 nm?
A
Benzene (C6H6)
B
Water (H2O)
C
Methane (CH4)
D
Sodium chloride (NaCl)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation in the range of 200 to 400 nm typically involves electronic transitions, especially in molecules with conjugated pi systems or unsaturated bonds.
Recognize that benzene (C6H6) has a conjugated system of alternating double bonds, which allows it to absorb UV light due to pi to pi* electronic transitions.
Note that water (H2O) and methane (CH4) are saturated molecules without conjugated pi systems, so they generally do not absorb significantly in the 200-400 nm UV range.
Consider that sodium chloride (NaCl) is an ionic compound and does not have molecular orbitals that absorb UV light in this range; it mainly absorbs in other regions or through different mechanisms.
Conclude that among the given options, benzene is most likely to absorb UV radiation between 200 and 400 nm because of its conjugated pi electron system.
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