Why, IF electrons really orbited atoms, would they lose energy?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of electron behavior in atoms, specifically questioning why electrons would lose energy if they orbited atoms. The subject area includes atomic physics and electromagnetic theory.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to understand the relationship between changing electric fields and the emission of light by orbiting electrons. They question the source of the changing electric field and propose a self-supporting process involving changing magnetic fields.
  • Another participant suggests visualizing the electric field around a simple atom and considers how the electric field changes as the electron orbits, prompting reflection on the differences in electric field at various points in time.
  • Further contributions clarify that a moving charge produces a changing electric field, emphasizing the relationship between the position of the charge and the electric field experienced at a fixed point.

Discussion Status

The discussion is actively exploring the implications of moving charges on electric fields and the nature of energy loss in orbiting electrons. Participants are engaging with conceptual questions and providing insights without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the assumption that the classical model of electrons orbiting atoms is being considered, while also questioning the validity of this model in light of electromagnetic principles.

bananabandana
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Homework Statement



Why, IF electrons really orbited atoms, would they lose energy?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


I realize they're meant to emit light. But why? I understand vaguely that the E field might be changing with time, since you have a changing magnetic flux... but where does the changing E field come from? Unless I guess it's just a self supporting process (changing B field *causes* changing E here...) - is that just what a light ray is??

Many Thanks!
 
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Draw up a picture of a simple atom, like a hydrogen atom. Ignore the contribution from the atom core to the electric field.

Pick a random point and write down the electric field in that point, draw it again after half a period (For the orbiting electron).

Will the electric field be different in the two pictures.
 
Oh right, for sure. The electron is at a different distance from the point! Sorry!
 
A moving charge always produces a changing E field, that should be obvious. Take any fixed point P in space. At some time, the charge Q is at distance A from P. At some other time, Q is at distance B from P. Because A and B are different, the E field at P must also be different.
 

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