Hydrogen Atom Size and Magnetic Field Data: Understanding the Basics

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the size of the hydrogen atom and its magnetic field data. The radius of a free hydrogen atom is not defined by the Bohr radius but rather by the concept of a probability cloud, with a 95% probability radius calculable through specific integrals. The magnetic field B of the ground state (1s) is not universally defined, with participants noting a magnetic moment of 9.285 x 10^-24 J/T. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding covalent radius and angular momentum in quantum mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics concepts, particularly angular momentum and magnetic moments.
  • Familiarity with the Bohr model and covalent radius definitions.
  • Basic knowledge of probability distributions in quantum systems.
  • Experience with mathematical integration techniques relevant to quantum calculations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "covalent radius of hydrogen" for detailed atomic size information.
  • Learn how to calculate the 95% probability radius using quantum mechanical integrals.
  • Explore the relationship between magnetic moment and magnetic field in quantum mechanics.
  • Study the implications of angular momentum in both classical and quantum frameworks.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics, atomic structure, and magnetic properties of atoms. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of hydrogen atom characteristics and their implications in various scientific contexts.

bobie
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Can someone give me a link where I can find data on the size of an H atom (free and in main compounds like water)?
If there is none can you tell me roughly the range of sizes or at least what is the ratio between a free atom and a bound atom.
I know that for a free atom the radius is not the Bohr radius anymore , and that there is a cloud of probability, can you tell me what is the radius where probability is 95%?

If it is possible, I'd like to learn what is the official value of the magnetic field B of the ground state (1s), as on the web I found many contrasting values. I tried to calculate it myself and I got 1/8 Tesla, is that correct?
I read also that angular moment in QM is 0, is it h/2pi in classical model?
Thanks a lot for your help.
 
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Hydrogen atoms aren't spheres and therefore don't have a unique radius. Rather, the definition depends on the application. You may look for the term "covalent radius".
The 95% probability radius I would have to calculate myself:
If r is measured in units of a (Bohr radii) then
## \int_0^{r_{95\%} }r^2 \exp(-r)dr=0.95\times \int_0^\infty r^2 \exp(-r)dr ##.
Probably, Wolfram Alpha will solve that for ##r_{95\%}##.

I have never heard of the official value B field for hydrogen. Anyhow the magnetic moment vanishes both for a classical and a quantum mechnanical state with l=0, e.g. in Bohr-Sommerfeld theory.
 
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DrDu said:
I have never heard of the official value B field for hydrogen. Anyhow the magnetic moment vanishes both for a classical and a quantum mechnanical state with l=0, e.g. in Bohr-Sommerfeld theory.
Thanks for the precious tip, I found r= 79 and covalent r 32
As to the magnetig moment I found 9.285 * 10^-24 J/T
If I divide that by μ which is (if I am not wrong q*v*r/2) h/4π, to I get the value of B?
As to angular momentum (mvr) I think it is twice as the magnetic moment h/2pi

Thanks for your help
 
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