Wave function for the Helium molecule

In summary, the conversation discusses the wave function of helium and the differences between the given equation and the one mentioned in the book. The person mentions that the book claims the wave function is the product of two wave functions, while the given equation involves a different form. It is also mentioned that the anti-symmetrization requirement and spin state need to be considered.
  • #1
LCSphysicist
645
161
Homework Statement
...
Relevant Equations
...
I am having a trouble to understand why the helium's wave function (in which we are ignoring the electric interaction between the electrons, as well the motion and problems that arise in considering the nucleus in the wave function) can be written as the product of the wave function of both electron.

I mean, being the electron fermion particles, shouldn't it be written as:

$$\psi = (\psi_{(nlm)'}(r1)\psi_{nlm}(r2) - \psi_{(nlm)'}(r2)\psi_{nlm}(r1))/{\sqrt(2)}$$

?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
What don't you understand?
 
  • #3
PeroK said:
What don't you understand?
Instead the equation i gave, the book claims that the wave function is:
$$\psi = \psi_{nlm} \psi_{(nlm)'}$$

1611495415820.png
 
  • #4
LCSphysicist said:
Instead the equation i gave, the book claims that the wave function is:
ψ=ψnlmψ(nlm)′

View attachment 276760
He says explicity that is a solution of the SDE. He hasn't yet considered the anti-symmetrization requirement - which, in any case, requires consideration of the spin state.
 
  • Like
Likes LCSphysicist
  • #5
PeroK said:
He says explicity that is a solution of the SDE. He hasn't yet considered the anti-symmetrization requirement - which, in any case, requires consideration of the spin state.
Good point. That's it
 

1. What is the wave function for the Helium molecule?

The wave function for the Helium molecule is a mathematical description of the probability of finding the two electrons in a specific location around the Helium nucleus. It takes into account the positions and energies of both electrons and is essential for understanding the behavior and properties of the molecule.

2. How is the wave function for the Helium molecule calculated?

The wave function for the Helium molecule is calculated using quantum mechanical equations, specifically the Schrödinger equation. This equation takes into account the physical properties and interactions of the electrons and the nucleus to determine the most probable locations for the electrons.

3. What does the wave function tell us about the Helium molecule?

The wave function provides information about the electron density and energy levels of the Helium molecule. It can also help predict the molecule's chemical and physical properties, such as its bond length, bond angle, and stability.

4. Can the wave function for the Helium molecule be experimentally measured?

No, the wave function itself cannot be directly measured. However, the predictions and probabilities calculated from the wave function can be tested and verified through experiments and observations.

5. How does the wave function for the Helium molecule differ from that of a single Helium atom?

The wave function for the Helium molecule takes into account the interactions between the two electrons, while the wave function for a single Helium atom only considers the behavior of one electron. This results in a more complex wave function for the molecule, with additional terms and variables to account for the interactions between the electrons.

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
107
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
805
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
615
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
3
Views
261
  • Quantum Interpretations and Foundations
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
6
Views
3K
Back
Top