Total charge density of all electrons in the closed subshell n=3, l=2

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the total charge density of electrons in a closed subshell characterized by quantum numbers n=3 and l=2. The charge density for a single electron is expressed as (-e)|R_{32}(r)Y_{2,m}(\theta, \phi)|². The correct approach involves summing over the magnetic quantum number m, which ranges from -2 to +2, and considering all possible values of ms for the electrons in this subshell. The final charge distribution formula is given as ρ = -e ∑ |Ψ_{nlm}|², where the sum encompasses all relevant quantum states.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics, specifically quantum numbers n, l, and m.
  • Familiarity with spherical harmonics and their role in quantum mechanics.
  • Knowledge of charge density calculations in quantum systems.
  • Proficiency in using wave functions and their normalization in quantum mechanics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of spherical harmonics, particularly Y_{l,m} functions.
  • Learn about the quantum mechanical model of the atom, focusing on subshells and electron configurations.
  • Explore charge density calculations in multi-electron systems using wave functions.
  • Investigate the implications of quantum numbers on electron distributions in atoms.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students and researchers in quantum mechanics, particularly those studying atomic structure and electron configurations. It is also useful for physicists and chemists involved in computational modeling of atomic systems.

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Homework Statement


Hey guys,

So the title pretty much says it. I have to find the total charge density produced by all the electrons in a closed subshell where n = 3 and l = 2. The charge density produced by a single electron is (-e)|R_{32}(r)Y_{2,m}(\theta , \phi)|^{2}

Homework Equations


So he gave an example in lectures, but that was for something that had n=2, l=1 subshell. This is what I've got written down:

|P_{21}|^{2}=2(-e)\sum_{m=-1}^{+1}|Y_{lm}|^{2}=2(-e)|R_{21}|^{2}\frac{3}{4\pi}

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not sure that equation above is right for my situation...does it change when the quantum numbers change? of course the sum will now range from m = -2 -> +2 but is that all that changes? I can't even find any material on this, in my book or elsewhere...

thanks guys!
 
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The charge distribution is just \rho = -e \sum |\Psi_{nlm}|^2 where the sum is over all the electrons you're interested in. In this case, they are the electrons with n=3, l=2 so you should sum is over m and ms, for all values possible for this shell.
 

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