Eigen values for a state and spherical harmonics

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the eigenvalue Lz for a given wavefunction of an atom, specifically in the context of quantum mechanics and spherical harmonics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are attempting to identify the components of the wavefunction and relate them to quantum numbers n, l, and m. Questions about how to begin the analysis and the relationships between these quantum numbers and the eigenvalue Lz are raised.

Discussion Status

Some participants have made progress in identifying the components of the wavefunction and the corresponding quantum numbers. Guidance has been offered regarding the relationships between quantum numbers and their implications for Lz, but the discussion remains open with various interpretations being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working within the constraints of homework rules, focusing on understanding the wavefunction's structure and its implications without providing complete solutions.

samee
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Homework Statement



The complete wavefunction for a particular state an atom, is Si(r,theta,phi)=Ne^(-Zr/a_0)(Z/a_0)^3/2sqrt(1/4pi). What is the eigenvalue Lz for this state?

Homework Equations



see above

The Attempt at a Solution



This is the last one that I'm having trouble with. I have no idea how to start it. Just some pointers on how to begin would be awesome...
 
Last edited:
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The hydrogenic wavefunctions are of the form [itex]\psi(r,\phi,\theta)=R_{nl}Y_l^m[/itex]. You've been given the wavefunction
[tex]\psi = N r^2 e^{-\frac{Zr}{3a_0}}\sin^2 \theta e^{2i\phi}[/tex].

Identify the pieces and see if you can identify what n, l, and m are for this state.
 
Okay, so since Rn,l=2(Z/a0)3/2 e-Zr/a0, it means that the first part of the wavefunction is R and the second part is Y?

I know that Y0,0=Sqrt(1/4pi)
which fits the equation except for the constant out front.

This means that l=0. The first R for which l=0 is R1,0=2* e^(-Zr/a0)(Z/a0)3/2

So, if N=1/162sqrt(pi) *(Z/a0)7, then this wavefunction is R1,0Y0,0

This means that it is in the state |1,0,0>
 
Last edited:
Good work. Now learn how the quantum numbers n, l, and m relate to Lz. (You should also know how they relate to other observables, like the energy and total angular momentum, though you don't need to know that for this particular problem.)
 

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