E radial equation for a hydrogenic atom

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the radial equation for a hydrogenic atom by substituting the function R(r) = r² * e^(-r/a). The user derived the equation -h²c/(mr²) (r²/2a² - 3r/a + 3) + h²l(l+1)/2mr² - ze²/4πε₀ = E, but is uncertain about the next steps to find the values of energy (E), the Bohr radius (a), and the angular momentum quantum number (ℓ). The key equations and constants involved include Planck's constant (h), the speed of light (c), and the elementary charge (e).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics, specifically hydrogenic atom models
  • Familiarity with differential equations and their applications in physics
  • Knowledge of the radial equation in quantum mechanics
  • Basic grasp of mathematical functions and derivatives
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the radial equation for hydrogenic atoms in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about the significance of quantum numbers in atomic physics
  • Explore the application of the Schrödinger equation to solve for energy levels in hydrogen-like atoms
  • Investigate the relationship between the Bohr radius and energy levels in hydrogenic systems
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, particularly those focusing on atomic physics and the behavior of hydrogenic atoms, will benefit from this discussion.

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Homework Statement


By substituting R(r)=r^2*e^(-r/a) into the radial equation for a hydrogenic atom, find the values of a, ℓ and E for which the function R(r).

Homework Equations


http://puu.sh/rOJQ3/8bcad54c45.png

The Attempt at a Solution


I took the first derivative of R(r), then multiplied it by r^2 before taking the derivative again to get

e^(-r/a)*(r^4/a - 6r^3/a + 6r^2)
then when putting it back into the radial equation ended with

-h^c/m * e^-r/a (r^2/(2a^2) - 3r/a + 3) + (h^2l(l+1))/2m) e^-r/a - (ze^2)/(4pi*epsilon_0)*r*e^(-r/a) = E*R(r)

then dividing by R(r) = r^2*e^(-r/a) i got

-h^2*c/(mr^2) (r^2/2a^2 - 3r/a + 3) + h^2l(l+1)/2mr^2 - ze^2/4pi*ep_0 = E

I don't really know where to go next with this to find E,a, and L.

thanks
 
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