Quick question about hydrogen atom perturbation

In summary: The point is, that the final state is different from the initial state. The only way to get from the initial state to the final state is to excite the electron from the 1s state to the 2p state, which means adding energy.In summary, the conversation discusses the concept of orbital angular momentum and its relation to the quantum numbers and probability calculations in quantum mechanics. The initial state is the 1s state and the final state is a specified state, requiring excitation of the electron. The conversation also mentions a resource for further understanding.
  • #1
davon806
148
1

Homework Statement


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I have already solved the problem, but I don't really understand why the orbital angular momentum in the z-direction has to be taken to 0 ?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Suppose the component of orbital angular momentum in the z-direction is non-zero, that means there are extra angular momentum apart from l = 1 in the 2p state ? So when excitation occurs,it is no longer a "2p" state? Just a guess :nb)
 
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  • #2
What is the quantum number related to the projection of angular momentum?
 
  • #3
DrClaude said:
What is the quantum number related to the projection of angular momentum?
Oh,do you mean that the problem asks you to compute the probability from 1s -> |210> because m = 0 in the z-direction? So basically the remaining two n = 2 states have nothing to do with this question?
 
  • #4
davon806 said:
I have already solved the problem, but I don't really understand why the orbital angular momentum in the z-direction has to be taken to 0?

Suppose the component of orbital angular momentum in the z-direction is non-zero, that means there are extra angular momentum apart from l = 1 in the 2p state? So when excitation occurs,it is no longer a "2p" state? Just a guess :nb)
Check out http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/quantum/vecmod.html to see why your guess isn't correct.

The problem asked you to calculate the probability for a given final state. It could have specified a different final state and given you a different expression for the probability.
 
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FAQ: Quick question about hydrogen atom perturbation

What is a perturbation in relation to the hydrogen atom?

A perturbation is a small change or disturbance in the system that can affect the behavior or properties of the hydrogen atom. It can be caused by external factors such as an applied electric field or interactions with other atoms.

How does perturbation affect the energy levels of the hydrogen atom?

Perturbation can cause the energy levels of the hydrogen atom to shift, resulting in changes to the spectral lines and transitions between energy levels. This is known as the Stark effect or the Lamb shift, depending on the type of perturbation.

Can perturbation be used to study the properties of the hydrogen atom?

Yes, perturbation is a useful tool in studying the behavior and properties of the hydrogen atom. By carefully measuring the effects of perturbation on the atom, scientists can gain insights into its structure and behavior.

How does perturbation affect the probability distribution of the electron in the hydrogen atom?

Perturbation can cause the electron's probability distribution to change, resulting in a distortion of the electron cloud around the nucleus. This can be observed through changes in the atom's spectral lines and can provide information about the electron's energy and position.

Is perturbation a reversible process for the hydrogen atom?

In most cases, perturbation is reversible for the hydrogen atom. This means that once the external perturbation is removed, the atom will return to its original state. However, in some cases, perturbation can cause permanent changes to the atom, such as shifts in energy levels, which are not reversible.

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