The Total Energy of the Hydrogen Atom's Electron

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SUMMARY

The total energy of the electron in a hydrogen atom is established at −13.6 eV. The correct statement regarding the energy components of the electron is that the work required to completely remove the electron from the atom is 13.6 eV. The potential energy of the electron is −13.6 eV, while its kinetic energy is +0 eV, as the total energy is the sum of potential and kinetic energies, which must equal −13.6 eV. Therefore, options 3 and 5 are incorrect based on the established principles of quantum mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with energy concepts in atomic physics
  • Knowledge of potential and kinetic energy relationships
  • Ability to apply the equation: Potential + Kinetic = Total Energy
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom
  • Learn about energy quantization in atomic systems
  • Explore the concept of ionization energy in hydrogen
  • Investigate the relationship between potential and kinetic energy in classical mechanics
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Students studying introductory physics, particularly those focusing on atomic structure and energy levels, as well as educators seeking to clarify concepts related to the hydrogen atom's electron energy states.

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Homework Statement
The total energy of the electron in a hydrogen
atom is normally −13.6 eV.
Which one statement below, based on this
fact, is correct?
1. The work required to completely remove
the electron from the atom is 13.6 eV.
2. The electron is in a circular orbit with a
kinetic energy of 6.8 eV.
3. The electron has a potential energy of
−27.2 eV and a kinetic energy of +13.6 eV.
4. The kinetic energy of the electron in the
atom is +27.2 eV.
5. The potential energy of the electron in
the atom is −13.6 eV.
6. The electron stays at a “classical turning
point” such that the potential energy is +13.6
eV.
Relevant Equations
Potential plus kinetic equals total energy
Homework Statement:: The total energy of the electron in a hydrogen
atom is normally −13.6 eV.
Which one statement below, based on this
fact, is correct?
1. The work required to completely remove
the electron from the atom is 13.6 eV.
2. The electron is in a circular orbit with a
kinetic energy of 6.8 eV.
3. The electron has a potential energy of
−27.2 eV and a kinetic energy of +13.6 eV.
4. The kinetic energy of the electron in the
atom is +27.2 eV.
5. The potential energy of the electron in
the atom is −13.6 eV.
6. The electron stays at a “classical turning
point” such that the potential energy is +13.6
eV.
Homework Equations:: Potential plus kinetic equals total energy

I have attempted both 3 and 5, both wrong. It makes sense to me that for 3 it would add up to be -13.6, but for some reason, this is not the answer. Please help
 
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I would post this in the Introductory Physics Homework Help, I believe advanced physics homework help is meant for upper undergraduate and graduate level physics. You'll probably get more help there
 
What is your reasoning for 3 and 5 being right and the rest being wrong?
 

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