Dipole moment of an isolated atom

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the nature of dipole moments in isolated atoms, exploring whether they possess permanent electric or magnetic dipole moments. The scope includes conceptual clarifications and technical explanations related to atomic structure and dipole definitions.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why an isolated atom does not have a permanent dipole moment.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on what is meant by "isolated atom."
  • One participant explains that a dipole consists of a pair of charges separated by some distance, asserting that single atoms are not dipoles due to the concentric arrangement of the nucleus and electron cloud.
  • A later reply reiterates the definition of a dipole and introduces the distinction between electric and magnetic dipoles, noting that many atoms have a magnetic dipole moment if they possess spin, and some may also have a small electric dipole moment.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of dipole moments in isolated atoms, with some focusing on electric dipoles and others introducing the concept of magnetic dipoles. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these distinctions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the assumptions regarding the definitions of dipoles or the conditions under which an atom may exhibit a dipole moment.

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why does an isolated atom not have a permanent dipole moment?
 
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An isolated atom such as?
 
A dipole consists of a pair of charges separated by some distance. Since the positive charge of the nucleus is very nearly concentric with the negative charge cloud of the electrons single atoms are not dipoles.
 
Integral said:
A dipole consists of a pair of charges separated by some distance. Since the positive charge of the nucleus is very nearly concentric with the negative charge cloud of the electrons single atoms are not dipoles.
you are talking about an electric dipole. the OP might have been about a magnetic dipole. many atoms do have magnetic dipole moment (any atom with a spin will have a dipole moment). and many atoms have a small electric dipole moment too
 

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