De-Broglie's explanation on Bohr's Angluar Momentum quantization?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on De-Broglie's explanation of Bohr's second postulate regarding angular momentum quantization, particularly in the context of standing waves in circular systems. Participants explore the conditions for standing waves in different geometries, including strings and circular paths, and how these relate to quantum mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that to understand De-Broglie's explanation, the concept of standing waves must be grasped, noting a condition for wavelength in a circular string.
  • Another participant argues that a standing wave can exist with one half wavelength around the circumference, likening it to waves traveling in opposite directions.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes the necessity of whole wavelengths for proper wave patterns around a circumference, stating that odd half wavelengths would not suffice.
  • One participant reflects on their earlier assumptions about nodes at fixed ends, acknowledging that a full wavelength is needed for circular strings.
  • Another participant agrees that the correct condition for circular circumference is indeed 2πr = nλ and introduces corrections made by Sommerfeld and Wilson to De-Broglie's theory, discussing the implications for wave behavior in curved strings.
  • This participant also posits that for a particle to behave as a wave without self-destruction, it must maintain a condition where the circumference is an integer multiple of the wavelength.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the conditions for standing waves in circular geometries, with no consensus reached on the implications of these conditions for De-Broglie's theory.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight limitations in understanding the transition from linear to circular wave conditions and the assumptions involved in applying classical wave concepts to quantum mechanics.

easwar2641993
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In order to understand about De-Broglie's explanation on Bohr's second postulate,concept of standing waves should be understood.
But condition of λ for a given value of length(string) L is given by L=nλ/s where n =1,2,3 etc.
But for a string whose ends are connected together and its shape is like a ring and let the radius of ring be r. Then standing waves condition is given by
Circumference = nλ/2
2∏r = nλ/2.

But this isn't right.
it should be 2∏r=nλ

I am missing something.Please correct me.
 
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A standing wave can exist if there is one half wavelength around the circumference - in the same way that it can exist in a half wavelength string. It's the equivalent of two waves traveling in opposite directions around the circumference. Only one node is necessary.
 
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If there were a rope around the circumference, we'd need a whole number of wavelengths in order for the wave pattern to join up properly, without discontinuities. An odd number of half wavelengths won't do - try drawing it.

Note that this 'rope picture' is nothing like the 'proper' wave function picture, at least not for small values of the principal quantum number, n. Interestingly, for large n, and ell = m = n-1 it gives a remarkably good picture.
 
Philip Wood said:
If there were a rope around the circumference, we'd need a whole number of wavelengths in order for the wave pattern to join up properly, without discontinuities. An odd number of half wavelengths won't do - try drawing it.

Note that this 'rope picture' is nothing like the 'proper' wave function picture, at least not for small values of the principal quantum number, n. Interestingly, for large n, and ell = m = n-1 it gives a remarkably good picture.
I thought this through a bit better and I think you must be right. I was assuming that the nodes at each fixed end were the equivalent to joining them together on a circular string but the phases would be wrong unless you have a full wavelength path around the circle. Cheers!
 
Yes in fact it should be 2Πr=nλ for circular circumference.
Sommerfeld and Wilson have made a correction to De-Broglie's theory that it should be:
∫pdx = nh for a closed curve, for the general case.
For our specific case assuming p is constant and not a function and λ=h/p:
∫dx=nλ
De-Broglie assumed a standing wave on a non-curved string, which works perfectly as the two waves go back and forth between two ends, but for a curved string this isn't the case, as the wave can continue, and thus destroy itself. Should a particle be a wave it must not destroy itself, as is evident by the fact matter exists for a long enough time, so the solution is to have one wave, that will interfere with itself such that the circumference is exactly an integer multiple of the wavelength, and thus not destroy itself but construct itself, and still be a standing wave.
 
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