Quick question about orbital angular momentum

In summary, orbital angular momentum is a physical quantity that describes the rotational motion of an object around a central point or axis. It is different from spin angular momentum, which refers to the intrinsic angular momentum of a particle or object. The value of orbital angular momentum depends on factors such as mass, velocity, and distance from the central point. It is important in quantum mechanics for determining energy levels and understanding particle behavior in magnetic fields. Orbital angular momentum can be changed or transferred through interactions between objects or particles, known as orbital angular momentum coupling in quantum mechanics.
  • #1
Linus Pauling
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I was asked for the energy and orbital angular momentum of a hydrogen atom in the 6f state. Thus, with n = 6 I found E to be -0.378, a straightforward calculation.

I am confused about L, though. L = sqrt[l(l+1)]. Since n = 6, I thought l = n-1, so L would be sqrt(30)*h-bar, but the answer is sqrt(12)*h-bar, so l must be 3. Why?
 
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  • #2
The quantum number l can range from 0 to n-1, so the fact that n=6 only tells you l could be any integer from 0 to 5. What does the "f" stand for in "6f"?
 

1. What is orbital angular momentum?

Orbital angular momentum is a physical quantity that describes the rotational motion of an object around a central point or axis. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction.

2. How is orbital angular momentum different from spin angular momentum?

Orbital angular momentum refers to the rotational motion of an object around a central point, while spin angular momentum refers to the intrinsic angular momentum of a particle or object, independent of its motion.

3. What factors affect the value of orbital angular momentum?

The value of orbital angular momentum depends on the mass and velocity of the object, as well as the distance from the central point or axis.

4. How is orbital angular momentum important in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, orbital angular momentum plays a crucial role in determining the energy levels and properties of atoms and molecules. It also helps in understanding the behavior of particles in magnetic fields.

5. Can orbital angular momentum be changed or transferred?

Yes, orbital angular momentum can be changed or transferred through interactions between objects or particles. For example, when an object orbits another object, its orbital angular momentum changes as it moves closer or further away. In quantum mechanics, the transfer of orbital angular momentum between particles is known as orbital angular momentum coupling.

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