Magnetic Moment, Electron Spin, Energy

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on calculating the potential energy difference between the two orientations of an electron's spin in a magnetic field, using the formula U = -u dot B. The user recognizes that electrons possess up and down spin states and considers using the gyromagnetic ratio g = 2 for calculations. They express confusion regarding the appropriate value for angular momentum, specifically Jz, as the problem does not define quantum numbers n and l. The suggestion is made to utilize the electron spin, S_z, to resolve the issue. Clarification on angular momentum in the context of electron spin is needed for further progress in the solution.
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Homework Statement



The PE of a magnetic moment in an external magnetic field is given by U = -u dot B. Calculate the difference in energy between the two possible orientations of an electron in a magnetic field B = .6k T

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I realize electrons can have an up spin and down spin, but I am having a hard time doing this problem.

I believe I should be using g = 2 for the gyromagnetic ratio. So: (_h = h bar)
uz = -g uB JZ/_h
uB = e(_h)/(2me)

Unfortunately then I don't know what I should have for Jz. (This is defined by my book as "any type of angular momentum).

So I guess my problem is that I don't know what I should use for angular momentum, since n and l aren't defined in the problem. Can anyone help clear this up?
 
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Use the electron spin, S_z. Strange you would know about the gyromagnetic ratio but not about which angular momentum that refers to in the case of an electron!
 
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