Units of orbital angular momentum QM?

In summary, orbital angular momentum is a physical quantity that describes the rotational motion of a particle in an orbit. It is measured in units of reduced Planck's constant and plays a fundamental role in describing the behavior of particles in quantum mechanics. The value of the angular momentum quantum number determines the shape of an atomic orbital, and this unit can change through orbital angular momentum coupling in atoms and molecules.
  • #1
Vitani11
275
3

Homework Statement



A hydrogen atom is in the 3d state. Determine the orbital angular momentum.

Homework Equations


unnecessary

The Attempt at a Solution


I already know how to figure this out and have an answer but WHAT ARE the units?! It's not kgm/s^2!
 
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  • #2
J s or kg m2 s-1
 

1. What is orbital angular momentum in quantum mechanics?

Orbital angular momentum is a physical quantity that describes the rotational motion of a particle around an axis. In quantum mechanics, it is represented by the operator QM, which is used to calculate the magnitude and direction of the angular momentum of a particle in an orbit.

2. How is the unit of orbital angular momentum measured?

The unit of orbital angular momentum in quantum mechanics is typically measured in units of Planck's constant (ℏ) multiplied by the quantum number l, which represents the orbital angular momentum quantum number. This unit is known as the reduced Planck's constant (ℏ).

3. What is the significance of orbital angular momentum in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, orbital angular momentum is a fundamental property of particles that plays a crucial role in describing their behavior. It is an important quantum number that is used to identify the energy levels and states of a particle in an atom or molecule.

4. How does the unit of orbital angular momentum relate to the shape of an atomic orbital?

The unit of orbital angular momentum is directly related to the shape of an atomic orbital. The angular momentum quantum number l determines the shape of an orbital, with values ranging from 0 to n-1, where n is the principal quantum number. The higher the value of l, the more complex the shape of the orbital becomes.

5. Can the unit of orbital angular momentum change in an atom or molecule?

Yes, the unit of orbital angular momentum can change in an atom or molecule. This is known as orbital angular momentum coupling, which occurs when the total angular momentum of a system is the result of the individual angular momenta of its constituent particles. This coupling can result in the mixing of energy levels and the creation of new states with different quantum numbers.

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