Bohr model & relativity on large atoms?

In summary, the increase in mass of electrons due to the relativistic correction does not significantly affect the overall mass of atoms in heavier elements. The concept of relativistic mass is still problematic and only applicable to hydrogen-like atoms. The Bohr model is also limited in its application. Overall, the effect on the combined mass of the system is still below nuclear binding energies.
  • #1
Ruptor
18
0
Why Doesn't the increase in mass of the electrons, due to the relativistic correction required to prevent the calculated electron speed exceeding the speed of light, increase the mass of the atoms of the large elements? If the electrons were heavier on larger elements then the mass would diverge from the proton/Neutron value wouldn't it?
 
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  • #2
  • #3
So I guess the relativistic increase in mass of the faster electrons in heavier elements is the reason the atomic masses don't go up in nice multiples of proton+neutron+electron masses in the periodic table.
 
  • #4
You have to be careful here:

- the Bohr model is good for hydrogen-like atoms only: Atoms with a single electron, and (with additional corrections) electrons with filled shells and a single outer electron.
- relativistic mass is a very problematic concept
- while a captured electron gains some kinetic energy, it loses more potential energy. In total, the system loses energy
- the overall effect on the mass of the combined system (~1MeV/c^2) is still below nuclear binding energies (some MeV/c^2 and nucleon).
 
  • #5
Your very correct. But it helps to understand the concept, even if its only applicable to H electrons. Relativistic mass in this sense is still problamatic
 

1. What is the Bohr model and how does it explain the structure of atoms?

The Bohr model is a simplified representation of the structure of atoms proposed by Niels Bohr in 1913. It describes the atom as a small nucleus surrounded by orbiting electrons in specific energy levels. These energy levels are quantized, meaning the electrons can only exist in certain energy states. This model explains how atoms are stable and do not collapse due to their electrons orbiting at specific distances from the nucleus.

2. How does the Bohr model relate to relativity on large atoms?

The Bohr model is based on classical mechanics and does not take into account the principles of relativity. However, as atoms get larger and heavier, the speed of the electrons increases and they approach the speed of light. This leads to relativistic effects such as time dilation and length contraction, which can impact the behavior and stability of the atom.

3. Can the Bohr model accurately predict the behavior of atoms in the modern understanding of physics?

No, the Bohr model is an oversimplified representation of atoms and does not fully account for the behavior of electrons. It was later replaced by more accurate models, such as the quantum mechanical model, which take into account the principles of quantum mechanics and relativity.

4. How does the Bohr model explain the emission and absorption of light by atoms?

The Bohr model explains that electrons can jump from one energy level to another, releasing or absorbing energy in the form of photons. When an electron drops to a lower energy level, it emits a photon with a specific wavelength, which corresponds to a specific color of light. This explains the emission spectra of atoms and how they produce distinct lines of colors.

5. What are the limitations of the Bohr model?

The Bohr model only works for atoms with one electron, such as hydrogen. It also does not fully explain the behavior of electrons in atoms with multiple electrons, as they interact with each other and cannot be treated as independent particles. Furthermore, it does not take into account the wave-like nature of electrons and their uncertain positions in orbitals.

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