Why Electrons Don't Radiate in h/2π Orbits

In summary, the Bohr model of the atom explains that the electron does not radiate energy because it is viewed as a standing wave surrounding the nucleus. This concept has been further refined in Quantum Mechanics, which also uses the idea of standing waves to explain the behavior of particles. An example of a standing wave can be seen in the square well problem, which is often used in discussions of Quantum Mechanics.
  • #1
cbram
6
0
Why is electron rotating in h/2pi orbit does not radiate energy
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
We don't look at the electron as a particle rotating the nucleus instead we say its a standing wave surrounding the nucleus as first described in the Bohr model of the atom.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bohr_model

and as such doesn't radiate electromagnetic radiation. Later Quantum Mechanics refined it further explaining things that the Bohr model failed at.
 
  • #3
Can you tell me what is standing waves with example i am studying my 11 the standard I can't understand it
 
  • #5
Thank you
 

What is the significance of h/2π in electron orbits?

The value of h/2π, also known as the reduced Planck's constant, is a fundamental constant in quantum mechanics. It represents the minimum amount of angular momentum that can be possessed by a particle, such as an electron, in a given quantum state.

Why do electrons not radiate while in h/2π orbits?

Electrons in h/2π orbits do not radiate because they are in a state of constant motion and do not experience any acceleration. According to classical electromagnetic theory, accelerated charges emit electromagnetic radiation, but this does not apply to the quantum realm where electrons are confined to discrete energy levels.

How do electrons transition between h/2π orbits without radiating?

Electrons can transition between h/2π orbits without radiating by absorbing or emitting a photon. When an electron absorbs a photon, it gains energy and jumps to a higher energy level, and when it emits a photon, it loses energy and drops to a lower energy level. These transitions do not involve acceleration and therefore do not result in radiation.

Can electrons emit radiation in other types of orbits?

Yes, electrons can emit radiation in other types of orbits, such as circular orbits. These orbits are not quantized like h/2π orbits and allow for continuous changes in velocity, resulting in acceleration and radiation. However, in the quantum realm, electrons are typically found in discrete energy levels rather than continuous orbits.

How does the concept of h/2π orbits fit into the Bohr model of the atom?

The concept of h/2π orbits is a key component of the Bohr model of the atom, which describes electrons as orbiting the nucleus in specific energy levels. The allowed energy levels in the Bohr model correspond to the h/2π orbits of the electron, with each level representing a different energy state. This model was later refined and expanded upon by quantum mechanics, which introduced the concept of orbitals and the uncertainty principle.

Similar threads

  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
6
Views
981
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
2
Views
744
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
19
Views
2K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
876
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
1
Views
2K
Back
Top