Quantum Numbers for Hydrogen Atom Electron

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around defining the quantum numbers necessary to specify the state of an electron in a hydrogen atom, particularly focusing on the angular momentum quantum numbers when the spatial wavefunction has no angular dependence.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to identify the quantum numbers n, l, ml, s, and ms, questioning the values of n and ms given the conditions of the problem. Some participants discuss the role of the principal quantum number n and its relation to the radial part of the wavefunction, while also emphasizing the angular momentum quantum numbers l and ml.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different aspects of the quantum numbers. Some guidance has been offered regarding the definitions of the quantum numbers, but there is no explicit consensus on the values of n and ms yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the implications of the spatial wavefunction's lack of angular dependence, which leads to specific constraints on the values of l and ml. There is also a mention of whether the thread should be categorized as advanced, indicating a potential concern about the complexity of the topic.

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Homework Statement



Define the quantum numbers required to specify the state of an electron in hydrogen. The spatial part of the wave-function describing a particular hydrogen atom has no angular dependence. Give the values of all the angular momentum quantum numbers for the electron.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



so am i right that the numbers are:

n - the total energy quantum number, n = L+1 where L is max value of l
l - total orbital angular mom quant number
ml - z comp of orbital ang mom
s - total spin quantum number
ms - z comp of spin

what about the next part?

if the spatial wavefunction has no angular dependence then i guess that l = 0, ml = 0. We know that s = 1/2. What about ms and n? Surely these can't be known?
 
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anyone?
 
hellooo people - should this be in advanced?
 

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