Understanding the Relationship Between Spin and Magnetic Moment

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between spin and magnetic moment, particularly in the context of electrons and protons. The original poster explores the directional relationship between spin and magnetic moment, questioning whether the definitions of these concepts lead to their opposing directions.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to relate the definitions of magnetic moment and spin, suggesting that the spin of a proton may align differently than that of an electron due to their respective charges. Some participants question the clarity of the original poster's inquiry and seek to understand the underlying assumptions.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing feedback on the clarity of the original question. There is an exploration of the definitions and relationships between spin and magnetic moment, but no consensus has been reached regarding the correctness of the original poster's reasoning.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the differences in charge between electrons and protons and how this may influence their magnetic moments. The original poster's attempt to draw classical analogies is acknowledged, but the implications of these analogies remain under discussion.

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Homework Statement


The spin is opposite in direction to the magnetic moment of the electron. Is that because the magnetic moment, u is defined as Ia where a is the area vector and spin is defined with the same direction as if it had components around it that swirl around with the angular momentum being (r)x(v) so is always oppsite in direction to the magnetic moment. So the spin of the proton would always have the same sign as its magnetic moment?
 
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Hello.

I don't understand what is your question... perhaps you can rearrange it a little bit.

So...

pivoxa15 said:
The spin is opposite in direction to the magnetic moment of the electron.

This is an statement.

pivoxa15 said:
Is that because the magnetic moment, u is defined as Ia where a is the area vector and spin is defined with the same direction as if it had components around it that swirl around with the angular momentum being (r)x(v) so is always oppsite in direction to the magnetic moment.

Is this your answer or part of your problem?

pivoxa15 said:
So the spin of the proton would always have the same sign as its magnetic moment?

This seems to be a guess of yours, Isn't it?


If you put it clearer, so we can help :wink:

Regards.
 
The electron has negative charge, the proton positive charge.
Mag mom is proportional to charge. Spin isn't.
 
The key part of my question is

'...spin is defined with the same direction as if it had components around it that swirl around with the angular momentum being (r)x(v) so is always oppsite in direction to the magnetic moment [since as Meir Achuz said, the spin does not take into account the charge].'

The rest is trying to draw a comparison with something that is understandable classically which is the magnetic moment.

So spin is like the area vector of a spinning particle. However in the electron nothing is spinning. But we still give this area vector. This vector is different to the mangetic moment when the charge is negative.

So I have given a go at answering my own question. Is it correct?
 

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