The meaning of a symbol in Atomic Theory

1. Jun 25, 2013

Final_HB

I happened across this little thing in a formula and I cant find what it stands for in any book/ website I think it stands for the ground state of an element, but I want to clarify first

The symbol is E0

Its in this formula, which is derived from the energy of an electron.

E0 = $\frac {e^4 m} {32 \pi^2 \ hbar^2\epsilon^2}$

2. Jun 25, 2013

Staff: Mentor

Yes, that's the energy of the ground state of a hydrogen atom, in the Bohr model.

3. Jun 25, 2013

Final_HB

Thats perfect thank you :)

And then, im assuming, E_1 would be the next energy state and so on.

4. Jun 25, 2013

Khashishi

E_1 depends on context. It could mean an adjustment in the energy in perturbation theory.

5. Jun 26, 2013

Final_HB

well... in the context of the energy of an electron

6. Jun 26, 2013

Khashishi

That's not enough context.

7. Jun 26, 2013

Integral

Staff Emeritus
If you define it that way, yes. The author of the book or paper should define his terms. There are only a few that are universal.