What is the Characteristic Electric Field in an Atom?

In summary, the task is to find the characteristic value of the electric field in an atom using the given values of \hbar, electron mass, and electron charge, and the equation r_n = \frac{n^2 h^2}{4 {\pi}^2 m e^2}. The attempt at a solution involved trying to find the E field classically and using the equations E = \frac{e}{r^2} and E = \frac{\pi^2 m ^2 e ^ 5}{n^2 \hbar^4}, but the units did not seem to match. It was questioned if r_n is expressed in cgs units and if so, then the value for E_{at} in
  • #1
silimay
26
0

Homework Statement



Using the values of [tex]\hbar[/tex], the electron mass and the electron charge, find the characteristic value of the electric field in an atom, in statvolts / cm (cgs).

Homework Equations



[tex]r_n = \frac{n^2 h^2}{4 {\pi}^2 m e^2}[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



So I wasn't really sure what to do with this problem...would you just try to find the E field classically? I tried doing

[tex] E = \frac{e}{r^2}[/tex]

[tex] E = \frac{\pi^2 m ^2 e ^ 5}{n^2 \hbar^4} [/tex]

But that doesn't look right to me...esp the units...
 
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  • #2
Is r_{n} expressed in cgs units ? If so, then it's okay. E_{at} in the Bohr model is good.
 

1. What is the "Quantum - E field of atom"?

The "Quantum - E field of atom" refers to the quantum mechanical model of an atom where the electron is described as a wavefunction and its energy is determined by its position and momentum. The E field, or electric field, is a fundamental force that surrounds the atom and interacts with the electron.

2. How is the "Quantum - E field of atom" different from the classical model of an atom?

The classical model of an atom, also known as the Bohr model, describes the electron as a particle orbiting the nucleus in fixed energy levels. In contrast, the quantum mechanical model takes into account the wave-like nature of the electron and its uncertain position and energy.

3. What is the significance of the "Quantum - E field of atom" in understanding the behavior of atoms?

The "Quantum - E field of atom" is crucial in understanding the behavior of atoms because it explains the stability of atoms, the emission and absorption of light, and the periodic table of elements. It also plays a critical role in modern technologies such as transistors and lasers.

4. Can the "Quantum - E field of atom" be observed or measured?

No, the "Quantum - E field of atom" cannot be directly observed or measured. However, its effects can be observed through experiments and calculations, which have been shown to accurately predict the behavior of atoms.

5. How does the "Quantum - E field of atom" relate to the concept of superposition?

The "Quantum - E field of atom" is closely related to the concept of superposition, which states that an electron can exist in multiple states or energy levels simultaneously. This is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics and is essential in understanding the behavior of atoms and subatomic particles.

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