Why is j=0 to j'=0 forbidden by the parity rule if spin orbit interaction

In summary, the parity rule states that the total parity of a system must remain unchanged in any physical process. When considering the spin orbit interaction, the value of j represents the total angular momentum of the system, while j' represents the total orbital angular momentum. Since the spin orbit interaction can only occur between particles with the same total angular momentum, the parity rule prohibits the value of j from changing, meaning that j must remain equal to j'. Therefore, j=0 to j'=0 is forbidden by the parity rule. This is because in this case, both j and j' would have to equal zero, violating the rule that they must be the same. This restriction is important for understanding and predicting the behavior of particles and systems in physics
  • #1
blueyellow
Why is j=0 to j'=0 forbidden by the parity rule if spin orbit interaction is significant?
 
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  • #2
No matter what the interaction, a photon carries one unit of angular momentum.
 
  • #3
Meir Achuz said:
No matter what the interaction, a photon carries one unit of angular momentum.
At least.
 

1. Why is j=0 to j'=0 forbidden by the parity rule?

The parity rule states that the parity of a system must remain unchanged under certain transformations, such as spatial inversion. This means that if the spatial coordinates of a system are reversed, the system should remain the same. When j=0 to j'=0, the spin of the system changes, violating the parity rule.

2. What is spin-orbit interaction?

Spin-orbit interaction is the coupling between the spin and orbital angular momentum of a particle. This interaction arises due to the magnetic field created by the movement of the charged particle in its own electric field. It is a relativistic effect and is important in understanding the properties of atoms and molecules.

3. How does spin-orbit interaction affect the parity rule?

Spin-orbit interaction introduces a change in the spin of a system, which violates the parity rule. This is because the spatial inversion transformation also affects the direction of the spin, leading to a change in the overall parity of the system.

4. Are there any exceptions to the parity rule for j=0 to j'=0 transitions?

Yes, there are certain cases where j=0 to j'=0 transitions are allowed even though they violate the parity rule. This can happen in systems with strong spin-orbit coupling, where the spin and orbital angular momentum are strongly coupled, leading to a mixing of parity states.

5. How does the parity rule impact the behavior of electrons in atoms?

The parity rule plays a crucial role in determining the allowed energy levels and transitions of electrons in atoms. It helps in understanding the selection rules for atomic transitions, which dictate which transitions are allowed and which are forbidden. This, in turn, has a significant impact on the spectral lines observed in atomic spectroscopy.

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