Calculating Quantum Number n for a Mass Moving in an Infinite Square Well

In summary, the conversation discusses calculating the quantum number n for a mass of 10^-6 grams moving at a speed of 0.1 cm/s in a 1-D infinite square well. The equation E = T + V is referenced, with the clarification that the potential energy in this scenario is defined as zero.
  • #1
UrbanXrisis
1,196
1
a mass of 10^-6 grams is moving at a speed of 0.1 cm/s in a box 1 cm in length. Treating this as a 1-D infinite square well, i am to calculate the quantum number n:

i was wondering if I am setting this up correct:
[tex]\frac{1}{2} * 10^{-6 }g * 0.1 cm/s = \frac{n^2 \pi^2 \hbar ^2}{2*10^{-6 }g * 1cm^2}[/tex]
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Just use v^2 on the LHS.
 
  • #3
so [tex]E= \frac{n^2 \pi^2 \hbar ^2}{2mL}[/tex]
is really kinetic energy?
 
  • #4
UrbanXrisis said:
so [tex]E= \frac{n^2 \pi^2 \hbar ^2}{2mL}[/tex]
is really kinetic energy?

Not exactly. E = T + V. But since this is an infinite square well and the region you have has V defined as zero...

-Dan
 

Related to Calculating Quantum Number n for a Mass Moving in an Infinite Square Well

1. What are quantum numbers?

Quantum numbers are a set of four numbers that describe the state and properties of an electron in an atom. They are used to determine the energy level, orbital shape, orientation, and spin of an electron.

2. How many quantum numbers are there?

There are four quantum numbers: the principal quantum number (n), azimuthal quantum number (l), magnetic quantum number (ml), and spin quantum number (ms).

3. What is the significance of the principal quantum number?

The principal quantum number (n) indicates the energy level of an electron, with higher values of n corresponding to higher energy levels. It also determines the size and distance of the electron's orbital from the nucleus.

4. How is the azimuthal quantum number related to orbital shape?

The azimuthal quantum number (l) determines the shape of an electron's orbital. It can have values from 0 to n-1, with 0 corresponding to an s orbital, 1 to a p orbital, 2 to a d orbital, and so on.

5. What is the purpose of the spin quantum number?

The spin quantum number (ms) specifies the direction of an electron's spin, which can either be +1/2 or -1/2. It is important for understanding the behavior of electrons in magnetic fields and in forming electron configurations for atoms.

Similar threads

  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
570
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
852
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
758
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
995
Replies
16
Views
667
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
851
Back
Top