Electron band structure in a nucleus

In summary, the standard model of atoms is a model that explains the structure and behavior of atoms using the nucleus and electrons.
  • #1
Loren Booda
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Consider a nucleus with N neutrons and Z protons. Can one justify it alternatively as a nucleus with N + Z protons and N electrons, the latter occupying orbitals either confined to the nucleus or following beta decay according to their electronic potential?
 
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  • #2
The standard model of atoms is that they consist of a nucleus and electrons. Experiments all bear out this model. For example, the radius of the nucleus is very much smaller than the radius of an atom.
 
  • #3
Loren Booda said:
Consider a nucleus with N neutrons and Z protons. Can one justify it alternatively as a nucleus with N + Z protons and N electrons, the latter occupying orbitals either confined to the nucleus or following beta decay according to their electronic potential?
No, this alternative view can not be justified. There are several problems with this. For instance, you have proposed a non-zero lepton number for the nucleus.

Besides, the term "band structure" is not used in the context of single-atom orbitals; but to describe the spectrum formed by the overlap of a macroscopic number of orbitals, arranged periodically.
 
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  • #4
Loren Booda said:
Can one justify it alternatively as a nucleus with N + Z protons and N electrons,

This was in fact an early model of the nucleus, but it had serious problems with (a) the apparent lack of energy conservation in beta decay, (b) its inability to account for the overall spin of certain nuclei, and (c) the problem of how to confine electrons within a volume the size of the nucleus despite the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.

These problems were resolved c. 1930 by (a) Pauli's "invention" of the neutrino, (b) the discovery of the neutron, and (c) Fermi's theory of beta decay as the conversion of a neutron into a proton, with the emission of a newly-created electron and (anti)neutrino.

And of course nowadays we have huge mountains of data from nuclear and particle physics experiments, all analyzed under the assumption that nuclei contain protons and neutrons, and producing consistent results.
 

1. What is the electron band structure in a nucleus?

The electron band structure in a nucleus refers to the distribution of electrons in the energy levels or shells within the nucleus of an atom. This structure is determined by the number of protons and neutrons in the nucleus and follows certain rules, such as the Aufbau principle and the Pauli exclusion principle.

2. How does the electron band structure affect the stability of an atom?

The electron band structure plays a crucial role in determining the stability of an atom. Atoms tend to be more stable when their outermost energy level is full, and the electrons are arranged in a way that minimizes repulsion. This is why elements with full outer shells are less reactive and more stable than those with partially filled outer shells.

3. Can the electron band structure change in an atom?

The electron band structure in an atom can change if the atom undergoes a chemical reaction or experiences external influences, such as extreme temperatures or pressures. These changes can cause electrons to move between energy levels or even be ejected from the atom, altering its overall stability.

4. How is the electron band structure related to the properties of an element?

The electron band structure is directly related to the properties of an element. The number and arrangement of electrons in an atom determine its chemical properties, such as reactivity and bonding behavior. Additionally, the energy levels of electrons also affect the physical properties of an element, such as its conductivity and melting point.

5. How is the electron band structure studied and measured?

The electron band structure can be studied and measured through various techniques, such as X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy. These methods involve bombarding the atom with particles or energy and analyzing the resulting patterns or emissions. Additionally, theoretical models and calculations can also be used to predict and study the electron band structure of atoms.

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