Chapter 8: Problem 94
In a simple model of the hydrogen atom, an electron orbits a proton at \(2.18 \times 10^{6} \mathrm{~m} / \mathrm{s}\) in a circle of radius \(5.29 \times 10^{-11} .\) Find the magnitude and direction of the electron's angular momentum.
Short Answer
Expert verified
The angular momentum is \(1.056 \times 10^{-34} \text{ kg m}^2/ ext{s}\), pointing upwards.
Step by step solution
01
Recall the formula for angular momentum
The angular momentum \( L \) of a particle moving in a circular orbit is given by the formula \( L = mvr \), where \( m \) is the mass of the particle, \( v \) is the tangential speed, and \( r \) is the radius of the circle.
02
Identify the given values
In the problem, we are given the electron's speed \( v = 2.18 \times 10^6 \text{ m/s} \) and the radius of the circle \( r = 5.29 \times 10^{-11} \text{ m} \). The mass of an electron \( m \) is \( 9.11 \times 10^{-31} \text{ kg} \).
03
Calculate the angular momentum
Substitute the given values into the angular momentum formula \( L = mvr \): \[L = (9.11 \times 10^{-31} \text{ kg})(2.18 \times 10^6 \text{ m/s})(5.29 \times 10^{-11} \text{ m})\]Solve this to find \( L \).
04
Execute the calculation
Perform the multiplication: \[ L = 9.11 \times 2.18 \times 5.29 \times 10^{-31+6-11} \text{ kg m}^2/ ext{s} \]First calculate the coefficients:\[ 9.11 \times 2.18 \times 5.29 \approx 1.056 \]Now calculate the powers of 10:\[ 10^{-31+6-11} = 10^{-36} \]Thus, the angular momentum \( L = 1.056 \times 10^{-34} \text{ kg m}^2/ ext{s} \).
05
Determine the direction of angular momentum
The direction of angular momentum is perpendicular to the plane of the orbit, following the right-hand rule. If the electron is orbiting counterclockwise when viewed from above, the angular momentum vector points upwards.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Hydrogen Atom Model
The hydrogen atom, one of the simplest atoms, consists of only a single electron orbiting around a single proton. This simplicity makes it an ideal subject for understanding fundamental atomic structures.
In many educational models, the electron is depicted in a circular orbit around the proton, much like a planet around the sun, although in reality, electrons occupy more complex quantum mechanical orbitals.
In many educational models, the electron is depicted in a circular orbit around the proton, much like a planet around the sun, although in reality, electrons occupy more complex quantum mechanical orbitals.
- This model helps in visualizing atomic behavior with respect to classical motion concepts like angular momentum.
- It introduces students to foundational physics principles, aiding in understanding more complex atoms.
Electron Motion
Electron motion in the hydrogen atom model focuses on an electron's circular path around a proton. Electrons move with a specific tangential speed, contributing to the calculation of angular momentum.
The constant speed indicates uniform circular motion, which means:
The constant speed indicates uniform circular motion, which means:
- The magnitude of the velocity is constant, while the direction changes continuously.
- This results in acceleration towards the center of the circle, known as centripetal acceleration.
Circular Orbit
The concept of a circular orbit is central to understanding how angular momentum functions within atomic systems like the hydrogen atom. A circular orbit means the path of the electron is perfectly circular and has a constant radius.
This assumption simplifies calculations and helps illustrate key points:
This assumption simplifies calculations and helps illustrate key points:
- The constant radius (r = 5.29 596 ext{ m}) simplifies the application of formulas like angular momentum (L = mvr).
- Despite the reality being more complex due to quantum mechanics, this model is a great starting point for learning essential physics principles.
Right-Hand Rule
The right-hand rule is a handy tool used to determine the direction of angular momentum vector. When dealing with circular motion, understanding the direction of vectors is crucial.
To apply the right-hand rule:
To apply the right-hand rule:
- Point your right thumb in the direction of the angular momentum vector, which is perpendicular to the plane of motion.
- Rotate your fingers in the direction of the electron's motion. If electron motion is counterclockwise, your thumb will point upwards, indicating the direction of the angular momentum.