Azimuthal Wavefunctions: Showing a constant must be an integer

In summary, the azimuthal part of the wavefunction in spherical polars is given by psi(phi) = 1/sqrt[2.pi] . exp[i.m.phi] and in order for the boundary conditions to hold, m must be an integer. This information can help in solving problems involving spherical polars and the wavefunction.
  • #1
lms_89
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Homework Statement


In spherical polars, the azimuthal part of the wavefunction of a particle is

psi(phi) = 1/sqrt[2.pi] . exp[i.m.phi]

where phi is the azimuthal angle. Show m must be an integer.

Homework Equations


I know you are supposed to have a good go at solving the problem first, but this doesn't seem the sort of question you have an equation for. I've tried googling, and asking my friends, and thinking about it, but am panicking a bit because my exam is tomorrow and I still don't know what to do!

The Attempt at a Solution


See above! Any suggestions of even how to start would be really helpful :)
 
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  • #2
It follows from the boundary conditions on a sphere [itex]\psi(0)=\psi(2\pi)[/itex]. Try to find all values for m for which those boundary values hold.
 
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  • #3
Ah ok, thanks. I'll have another think about it :)
 

FAQ: Azimuthal Wavefunctions: Showing a constant must be an integer

What is an azimuthal wavefunction?

An azimuthal wavefunction is a mathematical representation of the probability of finding an electron at a particular point in space around an atomic nucleus. It describes the spatial distribution of an electron's energy in an atom.

Why must a constant in an azimuthal wavefunction be an integer?

The constant in an azimuthal wavefunction represents the angular momentum of an electron in an atom. According to quantum mechanics, the angular momentum of a particle can only take on discrete values, which are represented by integers. Therefore, the constant in an azimuthal wavefunction must also be an integer.

How does the constant in an azimuthal wavefunction affect the electron's energy?

The constant in an azimuthal wavefunction is directly related to the electron's angular momentum. The higher the value of the constant, the higher the angular momentum and the higher the electron's energy. This is because electrons with higher angular momentum are farther away from the nucleus, which requires more energy to maintain.

What happens if the constant in an azimuthal wavefunction is not an integer?

If the constant in an azimuthal wavefunction is not an integer, the wavefunction becomes invalid and cannot accurately describe the behavior of an electron in an atom. This is because the angular momentum of a particle can only take on discrete values, as described by quantum mechanics.

Can the constant in an azimuthal wavefunction have a negative value?

No, the constant in an azimuthal wavefunction cannot have a negative value. This is because angular momentum is a vector quantity and cannot have a negative magnitude. The direction of the angular momentum can be negative, but the magnitude must be positive.

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