Use the hydrogen-like energy formula

For any hydrogen-like species, $E_n = -13.6\,\frac{Z^2}{n^2}\ \text{eV}$ where:

• $Z$ = atomic number
• $n$ = principal quantum number

Identify the ion and the required state

For $He^+$:

• helium has $Z=2$
• $He^+$ is a hydrogen-like ion (only one electron)

“Second excited state” means:

• ground state $\to n=1$
• first excited state $\to n=2$
• second excited state $\to n=3$

Substitute values

$E_3 = -13.6\times \frac{2^2}{3^2}$

$E_3 = -13.6\times \frac{4}{9}$

$E_3 = -\frac{54.4}{9}$

$E_3 \approx -6.04\ \text{eV}$

Match with the options

The value is $-6.04\ \text{eV}$

So the correct option is A.

Compare with stored correct answer

Stored correct answer: A

My derived answer: A

Hence, they agree.