Spin-Orbit Effects: Calculating Effective Magnetic Field?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the spin-orbit effects in sodium, specifically focusing on the splitting of the 3P to 3S transition and how to calculate the effective magnetic field experienced by the outer electron due to its orbital motion. The scope includes conceptual understanding and application of quantum mechanics principles related to atomic transitions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes the wavelengths corresponding to the split transitions in sodium and seeks to calculate the effective magnetic field from these values.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need for the original poster to show some work or understanding of the spin-orbit interaction before receiving help.
  • A later reply clarifies that the requirement for effort applies to all questions, regardless of whether they are coursework-related.
  • The original poster later indicates they found hints and solved the problem independently, thanking others for their assistance.
  • Another participant references a previous thread that contains a similar calculation, suggesting it may be useful for the original poster.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of demonstrating effort in understanding the topic, but there is no consensus on the specific calculation methods or interpretations of the spin-orbit effect.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the original poster's understanding of the spin-orbit interaction, indicating a potential gap in foundational knowledge that may affect the discussion.

ghallya
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Spin-orbit effects splits !?

Hi AllL

the spin-orbit effect splits the 3P-->3S transition in sodium(which gives rise to the yellow light of sodium vapor highway lamps) into two lines 589.0 nm corresponding to 3P sub 3/2-->3S sub 1/2 and 589.6nm corresponding to 3P sub 1/2 --> 3S sub 1/2.
How can I use these wavelengths to calculate the effective magnetic field experinced by the outer electron in the sodium atom as a result of its orbital motion ??
 
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ghallya, you have to show some work:)
 
what do u mean ?:(
i don't know , i can't even understand it correctly
a little help from u , ill show some work for sure
 
I'm sorry, but that's the policy - please read the guidelines for this subforum. We can't help you with a coursework problem if you only post the question. You need to show some effort - what do you know about the spin-orbit interaction ?
 
thanx anyway Gokul , but its not a course work :)
Its somthing we didnt understand from the book

I searched for help , and I found hints and I solved it
so thanks , :)
 
We require the same effort on standard textbook questions (since it is expected that the question be based on material that is covered in the text), irrespective of whether it is assigned homework or not.

Since you've solved it, I'd point you to this thread. Your calculation is essentially the same as the one I did in the first paragraph there.
 

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