Perturbation of hydrogen energy due to nucleus

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the first-order energy correction to the ground state of the hydrogen atom due to the finite size of the nucleus, modeled as a uniformly charged shell with radius b. Participants explore the interaction Hamiltonian, H', and its dependence on the radial coordinate, r. The key equations discussed include the unperturbed Hamiltonian H0 and the perturbation term H', which is derived from the potential energy inside and outside the nucleus. The leading term in the energy correction is evaluated for b = 10^-15 m, highlighting the significance of the nucleus's finite size in quantum mechanical calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals, specifically perturbation theory
  • Understanding of the hydrogen atom's wavefunctions, particularly ψ1s
  • Familiarity with Hamiltonian mechanics and energy corrections
  • Basic knowledge of electrostatics and potential energy in quantum systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the expectation value of the perturbation H' using the wavefunction ψ1s
  • Explore the implications of finite nuclear size on energy levels in hydrogen-like atoms
  • Investigate the effects of different nuclear models on quantum mechanical systems
  • Learn about advanced perturbation techniques in quantum mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, physicists studying atomic structures, and anyone interested in the effects of nuclear size on atomic energy levels.

JamesJames
Messages
204
Reaction score
0
Consider the ground state of the hydrogen atom. Estimate the correction \frac{\Delta E}{E_1s} caused by the finite size of the nucleus. Assume that it is a unifromly charged shell with radius b and the potential inside is given by \frac{-e^2}{4\pi \epsilon b}

Calculate the first order energy eorrection to the ground state and expand in \frac{b}{a_0}. Keep the leading term and observe \frac{\Delta E}{E_1s} for b = 10^-15m.

Ok, I need help in constructing the interaction W (or H'). Once I get that, I would then calculate the expectation value of it by sandwiching it between \psi_1s. Is this correct and how would I construct the interaction?

Here is what I have so far

H0 = (p^2)/2m - e^2/r and H = H0 for r > r0

H = (p^2)/2m -e^2/(4pi epsilon b) = H0 + H' for r < r0

Then I would solve for H' and use the perturbation equation. Is this correct ?

James
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
Ok, i tried it and it is not making any sense. H' somehow does not depend on r. What am I doing wrong?

James
 
Anything guys...whatever you can suggest would be great.

James
 
The perturbation is a constant,indeed...The radius of the nucleus is a constant.And because the \psi_{1,0,0} (r,\theta,\phi) is normalized,the integration will be trivial.

Daniel.
 
Are the steps I used correct?
 
Ok, I think I made a mistake. H' does in fact depend on r.

H' = H0 + e^2/r - e^2/(4pi epsilon b)

So I am going to get a constant term plus a term that depends on r so there will be some dependence. Where am I slipping up?

James
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
25
Views
1K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
4K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 20 ·
Replies
20
Views
4K
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K