Question

For copper, the transition 2p→1s transition is known as______

(a) Kα

(b) Kβ

(c) Kϒ

(d) Kc

I have been asked this question at a job interview.

This interesting question is from X-rays and their Generations topic in section X-Ray Diffraction of Solid State Chemistry

Answer 1

The correct answer is (a) Kα

The explanation: For copper, the transition 2p→1s, is called Kα, has a wavelength of 1.5418 A˚ and 3p→1s transition, Kβ, 1.3922 A˚. The Kα transition occurs much more frequently than the Kβ and it is these more intense Kα radiations which results that is used in diffraction experiments.