Influence of Orbitals on the mass of the electron

In summary, the energy levels of an atom can affect its mass, but it is the mass of the atom as a whole that changes, not the individual subatomic particles. This is due to the energy emitted when the particles combine, as described by the formula E=mc^2. It is not possible to determine the mass of each subatomic particle while they are bound in an atom, only the overall mass of the atom can be measured.
  • #1
Uzbar Zibil Tarag
6
0
If Energy levels differ in accordance to the orbital, say like 2s and 3d orbitals, then shouldn't the mass of the electron then change to uphold E=mc^2?
Or is there something I am missing?
 
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  • #2
You are correct in that the mass changes, but it isn't the mass of the electron that changes, it's the mass of the atom as a whole. In other words, an atom of hydrogen has slightly less mass than the sum of the masses of a free proton and free electron. This mass difference is proportional to the energy emitted when the electron and proton combine, with the exact amount found by using e=mc2.
 
  • #3
While that does make sense, if the mass of the atom as a whole changes and the electrons don't change mass, then do the Neutrons or Proton, or in the case of the Hydrogen example, just the proton change mass to account for this change?
 
  • #4
As far as I understand it, you can't say anything about the masses of each subatomic particle while they're bound in an atom. You can only say that the atom as a whole has less mass than the sum of the masses of the free particles. Perhaps someone more knowledgeable on this topic can explain it better than I can.
 

FAQ: Influence of Orbitals on the mass of the electron

1. What are orbitals and how do they influence the mass of the electron?

Orbitals are regions in an atom where electrons are most likely to be found. The mass of an electron is determined by its energy level, and the energy level is influenced by the shape and size of the orbital it occupies.

2. How do the different types of orbitals affect the mass of the electron?

The different types of orbitals (s, p, d, f) have different shapes and orientations, which affect the energy level and mass of the electron. For example, an electron in a 1s orbital has a lower mass than an electron in a 2p orbital due to the difference in energy levels.

3. Why does the mass of the electron vary in different elements?

The mass of the electron can vary in different elements due to the number and arrangement of electrons in their respective orbitals. The more electrons an element has, the higher the overall mass of the atom will be.

4. Can the mass of an electron change within an atom?

No, the mass of an electron cannot change within an atom. It is a fundamental property of the electron and is not affected by external factors. However, the mass of an electron can vary depending on the atom it is in.

5. How does the mass of the electron affect chemical reactions?

The mass of the electron does not have a direct effect on chemical reactions. However, the energy level and behavior of electrons within an atom can influence the reactivity and stability of an element, which in turn can affect chemical reactions.

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