Ionizing solutions to the hydrogen atom

In summary, there are ionizing solutions for the hydrogen atom problem, where the electron breaks away from the proton. These solutions involve a continuum of unbound states for E > 0, similar to a particle in a finite-barrier box when E > V. Transitions from bound to unbound states are not fundamentally different from transitions between bound states. The book "Quantum Mechanics" by Landau and Lifshetz discusses these solutions in detail.
  • #1
mordechai9
205
0
Are there any ionizing solutions for the hydrogen atom problem, where the electron breaks away from the proton?
 
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  • #2
Of course. For E > 0 you have a continuum of unbound states. Same as for when E > V for a particle in a finite-barrier box.
 
  • #3
I mean a solution where the electron transitions from being bound to breaking away... like in a collision.
 
  • #4
And the answer is still "of course".

Why would a transition to an unbound state be fundamentally different than transitions between bound states? It isn't.
 
  • #5
Could you help point me to one of these solutions then? I don't recall ever seeing the time-dependent Schrodinger equation solved for transitions or ionization and I'm not sure where to look...
 
  • #6
The book by Landau and Lifshetz "Quantum Mechanics" has a fairly complete discussion of the continuum eigenstates of the hydrogen atom.
 

What is an ionizing solution?

An ionizing solution is a solution that contains ions, which are atoms or molecules that have gained or lost electrons and therefore have a net electric charge. In the context of the hydrogen atom, an ionizing solution would contain a hydrogen atom that has either gained or lost an electron, resulting in a positively or negatively charged ion.

How can a hydrogen atom be ionized?

A hydrogen atom can be ionized in several ways, such as through exposure to high-energy radiation or collisions with other particles. In addition, the hydrogen atom can be ionized through chemical reactions, where it either gains or loses an electron to become a charged ion.

What is the significance of ionizing solutions to the study of the hydrogen atom?

Ionizing solutions are important in the study of the hydrogen atom because they allow us to observe the behavior of charged particles, which can provide valuable information about the structure and properties of the atom. Additionally, ionizing solutions can be used to create and manipulate ions, which can be used in various experiments and applications.

What are some common ionizing solutions used in hydrogen atom studies?

Some common ionizing solutions used in hydrogen atom studies include acids, such as hydrochloric acid and sulfuric acid, which can donate protons to form positively charged hydrogen ions. In addition, alkalis like sodium hydroxide can accept protons to form negatively charged hydroxide ions. These solutions can also be combined to create salt solutions, which contain both positively and negatively charged ions.

What are the potential dangers of working with ionizing solutions in hydrogen atom studies?

One potential danger of working with ionizing solutions in hydrogen atom studies is the risk of exposure to high-energy radiation, which can be harmful to living organisms. In addition, some ionizing solutions can be corrosive and cause damage to skin and other materials if not handled properly. It is important to follow proper safety protocols when working with ionizing solutions in a laboratory setting.

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