Hydrogwn atom electron probability

In summary, the conversation discusses the role of attraction between protons and electrons in determining the maximum probability of an electron's location in quantum physics. It is mentioned that the probability distribution is calculated from Schroedinger's equation, which includes a potential function corresponding to Coulomb's electrostatic force. However, the graph of the probability density and radius shows that the maximum probability is not near the Bohr's radius, contrary to what one would expect if the electrostatic force played a role.
  • #1
jd12345
256
2
Ok i don't know anything about quantum physsics but when i was reading about it( for the sake of learning new stuff) i had this question :-

Does the attraction between protons and electron play a role in determining where the electron probability is maximum at?
I was seeing the graph of probability density and radius :- it decreases as you go away from nucleus. So the coulombic attraction plays no role in determining where the max probability is? If the coulombic attraction played a role then max probability would be somewhere near the bohr's radius
 
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  • #2
The probability distribution you have seen is calculated from Schroedinger's equation, which contains a potential function [itex] U(r) = -Ke^2/r [/itex] which corresponds to Coulomb's electrostatic force.
 
  • #3
If it contains the electrostatic force then the max probability should be near the bohrs radius but the graph doesn't show that
 

1. What is the significance of the electron probability in a hydrogen atom?

The electron probability in a hydrogen atom refers to the likelihood of finding an electron in a particular region around the nucleus. This probability is based on the wave-like nature of electrons and is represented by an electron cloud model. It is significant because it helps us understand the behavior and properties of atoms, which ultimately determine the chemical and physical properties of elements.

2. How is the electron probability calculated in a hydrogen atom?

The electron probability in a hydrogen atom is calculated using a mathematical formula known as the Schrödinger equation. This equation takes into account the mass, charge, and energy of the electron, as well as the electric potential of the nucleus. The solution of this equation gives us a wave function, which can then be squared to obtain the probability density of finding an electron at a given point.

3. How does the electron probability change in different energy levels of a hydrogen atom?

The energy levels of a hydrogen atom are quantized, meaning that electrons can only occupy specific energy levels. As the energy level increases, the electron probability becomes more spread out, indicating that the electron has a higher chance of being found at a greater distance from the nucleus. This is because higher energy levels correspond to larger orbitals, allowing the electron to occupy a larger volume of space.

4. Can the electron probability be used to predict the exact location of an electron in a hydrogen atom?

No, the electron probability cannot be used to predict the exact location of an electron in a hydrogen atom. This is due to the uncertainty principle, which states that it is impossible to simultaneously know the exact position and momentum of a particle. The electron probability only gives us an idea of where the electron is likely to be found, but it cannot pinpoint its exact location.

5. How does the electron probability contribute to the shape of the periodic table?

The electron probability plays a crucial role in determining the chemical and physical properties of elements, which are reflected in the periodic table. The number and arrangement of electrons in an atom's electron cloud determine its reactivity, atomic size, and other characteristics. This information is essential in understanding the trends and patterns observed in the periodic table, making the electron probability a fundamental concept in chemistry.

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