What oscillates in an electron?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the oscillation of electrons in two specific scenarios: when an electron is in the 1s state of an atom and when an atom radiates light resonant with the 2p-1s transition. It is established that while the electron in the 1s state does not exhibit oscillation, the process of radiating light during the 2p-1s transition involves oscillations in the electrostatic force surrounding the electron. This indicates that the oscillation is not within the electron itself but rather in the field generated by its interaction with the nucleus and other particles.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals
  • Understanding of atomic orbitals, specifically 1s and 2p states
  • Knowledge of electromagnetic radiation principles
  • Familiarity with electrostatic forces in atomic systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of quantum mechanics related to electron states
  • Research the characteristics of atomic transitions and photon emission
  • Explore the concept of wave-particle duality in quantum physics
  • Examine the role of electrostatic forces in atomic interactions
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focused on quantum mechanics, atomic theory, and electromagnetic interactions, will benefit from this discussion.

PlusCrime
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Consider two cases:

1. Electron is in 1s state in an atom
2. Atom radiates a light which is in resonance with 2p-1s transition.

In which of these cases there is an oscillation in electron (or, in other words, something is waving in the electron) and what exactly is waving?
 
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No the electron is changing it's average distance from the nucleus. This creates a wave in the electrostatic force permeating from the electron.
 
PlusCrime said:
Consider two cases:

1. Electron is in 1s state in an atom
2. Atom radiates a light which is in resonance with 2p-1s transition.

In which of these cases there is an oscillation in electron (or, in other words, something is waving in the electron) and what exactly is waving?

Can you show me exactly where in the formulation of this system is there an "oscillation in electron"?

Zz.
 

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