Units being used in the graphs for ψ and radius (in nm) and ψ^2 and ra

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the units used in graphs depicting the wavefunction (ψ) and its square (ψ²) in the context of quantum mechanics, specifically within the atomic structure chapter. Participants seek clarity on the appropriate units and interpretations of these concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the units of ψ are likely $$nm^{-\frac{3}{2}}$$, suggesting that when squared and integrated over a 3D volume, the result should be dimensionless.
  • Another participant explains that the square of the wavefunction (ψ²) can be interpreted probabilistically, indicating that it represents the probability of finding a particle in a specific region.
  • A different participant emphasizes that while wavefunctions themselves may not have a direct physical interpretation, some interpretations of quantum mechanics do consider the wavefunction as a real entity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding regarding the interpretation of wavefunctions, with some agreeing on the probabilistic nature of ψ² while others challenge the notion that wavefunctions lack physical interpretation. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the definitive nature of wavefunctions.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the understanding of wavefunctions and their interpretations, as well as the mathematical steps involved in deriving the units. The discussion reflects a range of interpretations and assumptions that are not fully agreed upon.

tennispro1213
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We've just started learning about ψ in the quantum mechanics section of our atomic structure chapter. So while reading, I found these graphs where they used certain units along the y-axis for the graphs for ψ and radius (in nm), and ψ^2 and radius.

What units are these exactly?

My chemistry teacher wasn't able to give a reasonable explanation, and trying to learn about it online has left me overwhelmed with all sorts of complicated formulae.
So please help, and don't forget: this is the first time I'm reading about all this.
 
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The units of ψ are probably $$nm^{-\frac{3}{2}}$$
If you square it and integrate it over the 3D volume, the result has to be dimensionless (1, if properly normalized). So the unit of ψ2 is just ##\frac{1}{nm^3}##.
 
My limited understanding of wavefunctions is that you cannot physically interpret a wavefunction in and of itself. The square of a wavefunction is interpreted in a probabilistic manner such that the square of the absolute value of psi can be interpreted as the probability of finding the particle in a region (x + dx). You can read a bit more about it here. You can see in your attachments that the psi2 gives some peaks which are areas where you are most likely to find the particle. Additionally you have many areas where the probability of finding the particle is non-zero, so you can find the particle in those regions some of the time but less often. This is the reason why you may have been hearing about "electron clouds" and such and the spooky nature of the quantum world. I'm sure others may have better answers for you.
 
Yanick said:
My limited understanding of wavefunctions is that you cannot physically interpret a wavefunction in and of itself.
You can.
Interpretations of quantum mechanics
In some of them, the wavefunction is a real thing.
 

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