Controlling Electron Orbitals: The Key to Creating a Hydrogen Atom?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the creation of a hydrogen atom, specifically focusing on the conditions under which an electron can orbit a proton. It explores both classical and quantum mechanical perspectives on the topic.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether shooting an electron at a proton will result in the electron orbiting the proton and what factors influence this behavior.
  • Another participant suggests that the mechanics involved are similar to celestial bodies, indicating that the speed and direction of the electron relative to the proton are crucial.
  • A different participant raises the idea that the overlap of their wave-functions may play a role in the interaction.
  • One participant contrasts classical and quantum mechanical approaches, noting that classical mechanics provides a framework for understanding orbits through potential wells, while quantum mechanics introduces complexities such as wave-functions and the time-dependent nature of free electrons.
  • There is a mention of the need to disregard radiation effects in classical mechanics, which could lead to decaying orbits.
  • A participant expresses a desire to wait for further understanding until they study quantum mechanics.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views regarding the mechanics of electron orbits and the implications of classical versus quantum mechanics, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights limitations in understanding the quantum mechanical aspects of electron behavior and the assumptions involved in classical mechanics, such as the disregard for radiation effects.

cragar
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how do i make a hydrogen atom , if i shoot an electron by a proton will it start to orbit the proton , what dictates whether it will orbit or not .
 
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It is primarily a question of mechanics - similar to a planet in relation to a star. Basically it depends on the speed and direction of the electron relative to the proton.
 
Does it have anything to do with their wave-functions overlapping .
 
The classical and quantum-mechanical answers to this question are totally different.

Classically you have the standard 1/r^2 potential well and can solve the two-body problem analytically to find the conditions for capture and escape (which turn out to be elliptical and parabolic orbits), given a known starting position and velocity. However, whether you count an electron orbiting a proton with an eccentricity of 0.99 as an "atom" might depend on whether you call Pluto a planet! You also need to disregard radiation which will lead to fast decaying orbits.

Quantum mechanically I know a lot less about. You can probably find solutions to the static Schroedinger equation in a coulomb potential and argue they represent an atom, but a free electron appears in the maths as a wave with a time-dependent element so I don't know how it would be approached.
 
I see thanks for your answers maybe i will wait until i take QM
 

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