Quantum Mechanics: Hydrogen atom in an Electric field

In summary, the conversation discusses an external electric field being applied to a hydrogen atom and the resulting perturbation to its energy. The problem involves finding the correction to the energy using the external field in the Z direction and the perturbation H^{'} = -e\vec{E_{ex}} \cdot r. The person is unsure of how to approach the problem and is stuck with the integration for calculating the expectation value of z. The problem is from Griffiths 1st ed, Problem 6.31.
  • #1
ArjSiv
6
0
So, we have an external electric field [itex]E_{ex}[/itex] being subjected to a hydrogen atom and thus adding the following term to the perturbation:

[itex]H^{'} = -e\vec{E_{ex}} \cdot r[/itex].

The first question asks to find the correction to the energy treating it as a perturbation, and hints to use the external field being in the Z direction. So... I have absolutely no idea how to approach this problem other than having [itex]H^{'} = -eE_{ex} * z[/itex], but I have no idea where to go from here.

This problem can't be that difficult, I'm just stumped as to where to go from here.

By the way, this problem is from Griffiths 1st ed, Problem 6.31

Thanks in advance!
 
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  • #2
Are you somehow stuck with the integration when you try to calculate the expectation value of z? Your choice of perturbation is correct.
 

1. What is quantum mechanics?

Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with the behavior of matter and energy on a very small scale, such as atoms and subatomic particles. It describes the fundamental principles of how these particles interact with each other and with electromagnetic radiation.

2. What is a hydrogen atom?

A hydrogen atom is the simplest and most abundant atom in the universe. It consists of a single proton in the nucleus and a single electron orbiting around it. This simple structure makes it a useful system for studying quantum mechanics.

3. How does an electric field affect a hydrogen atom?

An electric field can affect a hydrogen atom by exerting a force on the electron, causing it to move in a certain direction. This can change the energy levels of the atom, as well as the probability of finding the electron in a particular location around the nucleus.

4. What is the significance of studying the hydrogen atom in an electric field?

Studying the hydrogen atom in an electric field allows us to understand how quantum mechanics principles apply to a simple system. It also has practical applications, such as in the development of new technologies like quantum computing.

5. What are the main equations used in describing the hydrogen atom in an electric field?

The main equations used in describing the hydrogen atom in an electric field are the Schrödinger equation, which describes the time evolution of the wave function of the system, and the Coulomb potential, which represents the interaction between the proton and electron. These equations can be solved to determine the energy levels and wave functions of the hydrogen atom in an electric field.

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