Probability of finding an electron

In summary, the conversation discusses the probability of finding an electron in a specific region defined by a cone with a half angle of 23.5 degrees measured from the z axis. Part a asks about the probability if the electron could be found anywhere in space, while part b considers the same calculation for an electron in a specific state. The conversation also mentions the use of a constant wave function and the importance of the radial density in the calculation. The summary concludes that the radial integral does not affect the ratio of the two integrals.
  • #1
stunner5000pt
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2

Homework Statement


Consider the probability of finding an electron in the region defined by the cone of half angle 23.5 degrees measured from the z axis

a) If the electron were eqally likely to be found anywhere in space, then what would be the proability of finding it inside the cone?

b) Repeat the same calcuculation but for an electron in a n=2, l=1, m=0 state

Homework Equations


[tex] \int_{all space} \Psi^*(r') \Psi(r') dr' [/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



for part a do they mean the electron in the ground state [itex] \Psi_{000} [/itex]??

In whiuch case the integral we need to do is

[tex] \int_{0}^{\0}^{\infty} (rR_{00}(r))^2 dr \int_{0}^{\frac{47\pi}{360}} \int_{0}^{\pi} (Y_{00}(\theta,\phi})^2 \sin \theta d\theta d\phi [/tex]

And apply the similar concept to get the answer for part b??
 
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  • #2
Part A means to put in a WF that is a constant.
The answer is then just the solid angle of the 23.5 degree cone.
For part B, put Y_{10}^2 into the integral.
 
  • #3
Meir Achuz said:
Part A means to put in a WF that is a constant.
The answer is then just the solid angle of the 23.5 degree cone.
For part B, put Y_{10}^2 into the integral.

doesnt the radial density matter as well??
 
  • #4
The radial integral is the same for the cone as for all solid angle, so it does not affect the ratio of the two integrals.
 

1. What is the probability of finding an electron?

The probability of finding an electron in a specific location cannot be determined exactly. It is described by its wave function, which gives the likelihood of finding the electron at any given point in space.

2. How is the probability of finding an electron calculated?

The probability of finding an electron is calculated by squaring the absolute value of the wave function. This value represents the probability density at a specific point in space.

3. Can the probability of finding an electron be greater than 1?

No, the probability of finding an electron cannot be greater than 1. The maximum probability for finding an electron is 1, as this represents a 100% chance of finding the electron at a specific point in space.

4. What factors affect the probability of finding an electron?

The probability of finding an electron is affected by the energy level of the atom, the distance from the nucleus, and the presence of other nearby electrons. The more energy an electron has, the higher its probability of being found in a specific location.

5. Is the probability of finding an electron the same in all atoms?

No, the probability of finding an electron varies between different atoms. The size and shape of the atom's electron cloud, as well as the number of protons and electrons, can affect the probability of finding an electron at a specific location.

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