Potential within a crystalline solid

In summary, the conversation discussed the potential of the atomic lattice and how as atoms are brought closer together, their potentials overlap, allowing electrons to occupy states belonging to no particular atoms. The book also mentioned that there are different ways for these wavefunctions to combine, resulting in different energies. One of these methods is LCAO, where L stands for linear instead of local.
  • #1
Worzo
20
0
I'm reading a book entitled "Electrons in Metals and Semiconductors" at the moment, and have reached a part where it is describing the potential of the atomic lattice.

I understand that as you bring atoms closer together, their potentials overlap, creating the possibility that electrons can occupy states which belong to no particular atoms, and hence their wavefunctions overlap.

Now, the book says that there are different ways to combine these wavefunctions which result in different energies. I don't understand how the wavefunctions combine in different ways. Can somebody enlighten me here?
 
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  • #2
Er... you add them! That is what is meant by the sum of the local combination of atomic orbitals (lcao).

Zz.
 
  • #3
In LCAO, L does not stand for local but for linear.
 
  • #4
Ooops... you're right.

Zz.
 

1. What is potential within a crystalline solid?

Potential within a crystalline solid refers to the electrostatic energy that exists between the positively charged ions and the negatively charged electrons within the crystal lattice structure.

2. How is the potential within a crystalline solid related to its structure?

The potential within a crystalline solid is directly related to its structure, as the arrangement of the ions in the lattice structure determines the strength and magnitude of the electrostatic forces between them.

3. What factors can affect the potential within a crystalline solid?

The potential within a crystalline solid can be affected by the type and size of the ions present, the distance between them, and the dielectric constant of the material.

4. How does the potential within a crystalline solid influence its physical properties?

The potential within a crystalline solid plays a crucial role in determining its physical properties, such as melting point, hardness, and conductivity. This is because the strength of the electrostatic forces affects the bonds between the ions and the overall stability of the crystal lattice.

5. Can the potential within a crystalline solid be modified?

Yes, the potential within a crystalline solid can be modified through various methods such as applying pressure, changing temperature, or introducing impurities into the crystal lattice. This can result in changes in the physical properties of the material.

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