How to pronounce this term symbol?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the pronunciation and interpretation of the term symbol $$5^{2}S_{\frac{1}{2}}$$, exploring its relevance in the context of many-electron atoms and quantum mechanics. Participants also question the significance of the number 5 in the expression.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests pronouncing the term symbol as "five-two-S-one-over-two".
  • Another participant proposes that "one-over-two" is typically pronounced as "one-half".
  • A participant questions the branch of science from which the expression originates, suggesting it may relate to quantum mechanics.
  • One participant asserts that the term symbol is used for the state specification of many-electron atoms.
  • Another participant points out that the 5 is not squared and that 5 and 2 have different meanings in this context.
  • A participant expresses skepticism about the relevance of pronunciation, stating that such terms are not usually communicated verbally.
  • Several participants question the presence of the number 5, with one noting that it is uncommon for a term symbol to have a number in front.
  • Another participant suggests that the number 5 may indicate the valence shell corresponding to n=5, which is the only incomplete shell.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the significance of the number 5 in the term symbol, with some questioning its presence and others suggesting it has a specific meaning related to quantum numbers. There is no consensus on the pronunciation or the interpretation of the term symbol.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential ambiguity in the meanings of the numbers in the term symbol and the lack of clarity regarding the conventions used in its presentation.

td21
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$$5^{2}S_{\frac{1}{2}}$$
My guess is five-two-S-one-over-two. Any suggestion is appreciated. Thanks.
 
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We usually pronounce your "one-over-two" as "one-half".
 
td21 said:
$$5^{2}S_{\frac{1}{2}}$$
My guess is five-two-S-one-over-two. Any suggestion is appreciated. Thanks.
In what branch of science does this expression come from?

Absent further details, I'm tempted to say ##5^2## is pronounced "five squared".
 
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I believe this is from the so-called term symbol for the state specification of many-electron atom.
 
Why is there a 5 in front? As far as I know, the term symbol shouldn't have a 5 in front.
 
I thought that the 5 is out of place too.
But that link seems to suggest a quantum number n that goes in front.
 
Khashishi said:
Why is there a 5 in front? As far as I know, the term symbol shouldn't have a 5 in front.
That's indeed uncommon, but probably that indicates that the valence shell, which is the only one incomplete, corresponds to n=5.
 

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