Understanding the Pauli Exclusion Principle and Its Consequences in an Atom

In summary, the conversation is about a question on a past paper that involves using the Pauli exclusion principle to determine the quantum numbers of 10 neon atoms in a ground state. The question also asks for the net z component of the electrons' angular momentum. The person asking for help knows that the quantum numbers have specific values and that the exclusion principle states that no two particles can have identical quantum numbers. Another person suggests looking at the symmetric or antisymmetric wave function for clarification.
  • #1
r-dizzel
10
0
hey all, posted this before but no one managed to get it?
question off a past paper that it can't do.../

state pauli exclusion principle (can do that) and explain its consequence in an atom (can do that). Use it to determine the values of n, l ml and ms of 10 neon atoms placed in a box at ground state. what is the net z component of angular momentum of the electrons?

any help much appriciated!

i know the quantum numbers can only take certain values and that pauli says no 2 particles can have identical quantum numbers but can't really get answer.

cheers all

robv
 
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  • #2
what quantum number do you know that are relevant i atomic physics, how are their values related to each other? What values can they obtain?
 
  • #3
Yes, of course you can state Pauli's exclusion principle... there's and argument about the symmetric or antisymmetric wave function (if the particle has integer or half-integer spin). You can find it well stated in whatever introductury book on QM.

In an atom, as electron (say), have semi-integer spin, the exclusion principle forbids that all electron occupy the ground state...

Good luck...
 

What is the Pauli Exclusion Principle?

The Pauli Exclusion Principle is a fundamental principle in quantum mechanics that states that no two identical fermions (particles with half-integer spin) can occupy the same quantum state at the same time.

Who discovered the Pauli Exclusion Principle?

The Pauli Exclusion Principle was first proposed by Austrian physicist Wolfgang Pauli in 1925.

What is the significance of the Pauli Exclusion Principle?

The Pauli Exclusion Principle plays a crucial role in explaining the behavior of electrons in atoms and the formation of chemical bonds. It also helps to explain the stability of matter and the properties of solids and liquids.

How does the Pauli Exclusion Principle relate to the periodic table of elements?

The Pauli Exclusion Principle dictates that only two electrons can occupy the same orbital, with opposite spins. This helps to explain the structure and organization of the elements in the periodic table, with elements in the same group having similar chemical properties due to their electron configurations.

Is the Pauli Exclusion Principle applicable to other particles besides electrons?

Yes, the Pauli Exclusion Principle applies to all fermions, including protons, neutrons, and quarks. It also plays a role in explaining the properties of neutron stars and white dwarfs.

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