Rejecting the Semiclassical Bohr Model: Examining the Uncertainty Relation

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the rejection of the semiclassical Bohr model due to the implications of the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics. Participants analyze the incompatibility between specific equations related to electron motion, particularly Eq. (1.7.1) and Eq. (1.7.2), emphasizing that the assumption of negligible uncertainties in position and momentum is invalid when considering non-classical motion. The conclusion drawn is that the semiclassical approach fails to accurately describe the behavior of electrons in hydrogen atoms, particularly at lower energy levels where the quantum effects become significant.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics.
  • Familiarity with the semiclassical Bohr model of the hydrogen atom.
  • Knowledge of classical mechanics concepts related to position and momentum.
  • Basic grasp of quantum mechanics equations and their implications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore the differences between classical and quantum mechanical models of atomic structure.
  • Investigate the mathematical derivation of the Bohr model equations and their limitations.
  • Learn about modern quantum mechanics concepts such as wave-particle duality and quantum states.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, particularly those studying quantum mechanics and atomic theory, as well as educators seeking to clarify the limitations of the semiclassical Bohr model in teaching contexts.

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"Show that the uncertainty relation forces us to reject the semiclassical Bohr [...]"

Homework Statement


The problem along with the solution is attached as TheProblemAndSolution.jpg.

Homework Equations


Uncertainty principle/relation.

The Attempt at a Solution


To consider an electron's motion in classical terms, the uncertainties in its position and momentum must be negligible when compared to r and p; in other words, Δx << r and Δp << p.
Why is it the consideration of the motion in classical terms that is reponsible for requiring that the uncertainties in position and momentum be negligible when compared to the actual values? Also, is it the case that the uncertainties need not be negligible when the motion is considered to be non-classical? If so, why is this the case?

Eq. (1.7.1) is incompatible with Eq. (1.7.2), unless n >> 1.
Is the reason why Eq. (1.7.1) is incompatible with Eq. (1.7.2) because we can analyze a situation at a specific energy level (and therefore hold n constant for that situation) such that n >> 1 does not hold (for example when n = 1)? Similarly, is it not the case that n >> 1 because, Eq. (1.7.2) does not hold for all values of n (even if it holds for the majority of the values), we can say that the assumption using classical theory is false and we must therefore reject the semiclassical Bohr model for the hydrogen atom?

Even if I got things right, please confirm it for me.

Any help in fully understanding this problem, would be greatly appreciated!
 

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