Energy States of Electrons in Free Space

In summary, the energy of an electron can exist in two states: a continuous state in free space and a discontinuous state near the nucleus of an atom. There is also a theory of states that explains the bound state energies of systems of particles, with a cutoff hyperbola dividing the discrete energy spectrum below the cutoff and the continuous spectrum of free particle states above it. When using the equation of QM/QFT to calculate interactions of systems of particles, there is a fundamental difference. In terms of the radii of electron orbits around a nucleus, there is no limit to the radius and concepts like "near" or "far" do not apply. Obtaining a concise answer about this concept may take some time.
  • #1
Jackrell
6
0
the energy of an electron in free space = the continuous state.
The energy of an electron near the nucleus of an atom = the discontinuous state.

Are there other states? Is there a theory of states.
 
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  • #2
The bound state energies of systems of particles correspond to poles in the green's function. There is in general a 'cutoff hyperbola' for which below the cutoff, the energy spectrum is discrete and composed of bound states and above the cutoff there is a continuous spectrum and free particle states. There is a fundamental difference when using the equation of QM/QFT to calculate interactions of systems of particles.

In regard to the radii of electron orbits around a nucleas, there is no limit to this radius so concepts like near or far do not really make sense. The answer is not difficult to obtain but to be concise would take a while. Would you like to do this?
 
  • #3


I can provide a response to this content by stating that the energy states of electrons in free space and near the nucleus of an atom are well-established concepts in quantum mechanics. These states refer to the different energy levels that an electron can occupy in a given system. In free space, the electron has a continuous range of energy levels, while near the nucleus of an atom, the energy levels are quantized and discrete. This is due to the influence of the positively charged nucleus on the electron's movement.

In addition to these two states, there are also other states that exist for electrons, such as bound states in molecules and solid materials. These states are also quantized and discrete, but they differ in their energy levels and behavior compared to the states in free space and near the nucleus.

As for a theory of states, the concept of energy states is a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics, which is a well-established theory that explains the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level. Within this theory, the concept of energy states is crucial in understanding the properties and interactions of particles, including electrons. However, there is ongoing research and exploration into further understanding the nature of these states and their implications in different systems.
 

FAQ: Energy States of Electrons in Free Space

What are energy states of electrons in free space?

The energy states of electrons in free space refer to the different energy levels that an electron can occupy when it is not bound to an atom or molecule. These energy states are important in understanding how electrons behave in a vacuum or in outer space.

How do electrons achieve different energy states in free space?

Electrons can achieve different energy states in free space through the absorption or emission of photons, which are packets of energy. When an electron absorbs a photon, it gains energy and moves to a higher energy state. When an electron emits a photon, it loses energy and moves to a lower energy state.

What is the significance of energy states of electrons in free space?

The energy states of electrons in free space are significant because they determine the behavior of electrons in a vacuum or in outer space. These energy states also play a role in processes such as photosynthesis, where electrons in plants absorb energy from photons to produce food.

How is the energy of an electron in free space measured?

The energy of an electron in free space can be measured using the concept of electron volts (eV). One electron volt is equal to the amount of energy gained by an electron when it is accelerated through a potential difference of one volt. Electrons in free space typically have energies in the range of a few eV to millions of eV.

Can energy states of electrons in free space be changed?

Yes, energy states of electrons in free space can be changed. As mentioned earlier, electrons can absorb or emit photons to move to different energy states. Additionally, electrons can also interact with other particles, such as protons, to change their energy states. This is important in various natural phenomena, such as the formation of auroras in the Earth's atmosphere.

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