What is the angular velocity of an electron around the nucleus

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SUMMARY

The angular velocity of an electron around the nucleus varies significantly based on the charge of the nucleus and the electron's distance from it. For outer electrons in gold, velocities can reach approximately 50% of the speed of light. It is crucial to incorporate relativistic effects in calculations at these high speeds. Additionally, quantum mechanics suggests that electrons do not behave like classical spinning charges, necessitating a cautious interpretation of angular velocity claims.

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Can somebody tell me what is the angular velocity of an electron (more or less) around the nucleus. (it doesn't matter whether it's one in the most inner shell or the most outter, I just need an average value)

thanks
 
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That depends on the charge of the nucleus as well as the distance from the electron to the nucleus. Some of the highest velosities known are for outer electrons of gold: they can travel at significant (~50%) fractions of the speed of light. Side note: at such speeds it becomes important to include relativistic effects when calculating the properties of such electrons.

Of course electrons are not really spinning charges arround another charge as far as QM is conserned, so you should view claims like the one above with some caution... :smile:
 

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