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View Full Version : Time-dependent perturbation theory question... not a hard one


bojibridge
Mar7-10, 02:19 PM
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

A hydrogen atom is placed in a uniform electric field E(t) given by E(t) = Enaught*exp(-a*t) (where a is a constant) for t >0.

The atom is initially in the ground state. What is the probability that, as
t→∞ , the atom makes a transition to the 2p state?

I know how to do this problem in general, but I'm just curious if by 2p state it means |2 0 0> or |2 1 0>...I want to go with the former, but is that what others would do? Or is it even going to matter?

Thanks so much!
1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data



2. Relevant equations



3. The attempt at a solution

vela
Mar7-10, 04:12 PM
2s would mean n=2, l=0; 2p means n=2, l=1. If I recall correctly, the electric dipole transition ends up requiring l to change by 1.

bojibridge
Mar7-10, 07:13 PM
Ah, yes, of course! Thank you! I'd lose my head if it wasn't attached...