Minimum energy of electron bound in nucleus

In summary, to estimate the minimum energy of an electron confined to a nucleus with a radius of 4 femtometres, we can use the uncertainty principle to find the average momentum and then plug it into the energy equation. While the solutions use Δpx/2, using Δpx may also be acceptable.
  • #1
phosgene
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Homework Statement



An electron is confined to a nucleus of radius 4 femtometres. Estimate its minimum energy.

Homework Equations



[itex]ΔxΔp_x=h/4\pi[/itex]
[itex]E^2=p^2c^2 + m^2c^4[/itex]

As the electron's rest energy will be much less than it's kinetic energy,

[itex]E=pc[/itex]

The Attempt at a Solution



So I understand that I'm supposed to use the uncertainty principle to find the average momentum, and then plug it into the energy equation. What I don't understand is that the solutions use Δpx/2 instead of just Δpx. Why is this?
 
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  • #2
I think that Δpx/2 in both directions gives a difference of Δpx, which is "somehow" equivalent to a momentum uncertainty.
Using Δpx is probably fine, too.
 

FAQ: Minimum energy of electron bound in nucleus

1. What is the minimum energy of an electron bound in a nucleus?

The minimum energy of an electron bound in a nucleus is known as the binding energy. It is a measure of the strength of the force that holds the electron in orbit around the nucleus.

2. How is the minimum energy of an electron in a nucleus calculated?

The minimum energy of an electron in a nucleus is calculated using the formula E = -Z2R0/n2, where Z is the atomic number, R0 is the Rydberg constant, and n is the principal quantum number.

3. How does the minimum energy of an electron in a nucleus vary with the atomic number?

The minimum energy of an electron in a nucleus is inversely proportional to the square of the atomic number. This means that as the atomic number increases, the minimum energy decreases.

4. What is the significance of the minimum energy of an electron in a nucleus?

The minimum energy of an electron in a nucleus is significant because it determines the stability of an atom. Atoms with low binding energy are more likely to undergo radioactive decay, while atoms with high binding energy are more stable.

5. Can the minimum energy of an electron in a nucleus be changed?

Yes, the minimum energy of an electron in a nucleus can be changed by altering the properties of the nucleus, such as the number of protons and neutrons, or by changing the principal quantum number of the electron's orbit. However, this change is typically only seen in nuclear reactions or extreme conditions.

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