One final issue is the reason that different elements emit different energy of light. T he electrical charge of the nucleus is different for each element. In our model that means that the potential energy is different for each element. Let us see how the allowed energies and wave functions depend upon the potential energy.
Use the Potential/Change Depth and Potential/Change Width menus to create a different potential energy. Use Energies/Search Allowed Energies to determine the allowed energies for this new atom.
Record the values of all allowed energies and the potential energy depth and width.
How do these allowed energies differ from the previous ones?
Keep the potential width constant and choose three different potential depths. Record the values of all allowed energies and the potential energy depth and width for each of your three choices.
How does the number of allowed energies change as the potential energy depth is increased?
How does the energy difference between the allowed energy levels change when the depth of the potential energy is increased?
Can you use this information to describe why different elements have different spectra? If you can, do so. If not, write a note to your instructor below.