Rejecting the Semiclassical Bohr Model: Examining the Uncertainty Relation

In summary, the uncertainty relation forces us to reject the semiclassical Bohr model for the hydrogen atom because the consideration of classical motion requires that the uncertainties in position and momentum be negligible compared to their actual values. This means that the uncertainty relation, which states that ΔxΔp ≥ h/4π, is incompatible with the classical theory. Additionally, the assumption that n >> 1 is necessary for the classical theory to hold, but this does not hold for all values of n, leading to the rejection of the semiclassical Bohr model.
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Homework Statement


The problem along with the solution is attached as TheProblemAndSolution.jpg.

Homework Equations


Uncertainty principle/relation.

The Attempt at a Solution


To consider an electron's motion in classical terms, the uncertainties in its position and momentum must be negligible when compared to r and p; in other words, Δx << r and Δp << p.
Why is it the consideration of the motion in classical terms that is reponsible for requiring that the uncertainties in position and momentum be negligible when compared to the actual values? Also, is it the case that the uncertainties need not be negligible when the motion is considered to be non-classical? If so, why is this the case?

Eq. (1.7.1) is incompatible with Eq. (1.7.2), unless n >> 1.
Is the reason why Eq. (1.7.1) is incompatible with Eq. (1.7.2) because we can analyze a situation at a specific energy level (and therefore hold n constant for that situation) such that n >> 1 does not hold (for example when n = 1)? Similarly, is it not the case that n >> 1 because, Eq. (1.7.2) does not hold for all values of n (even if it holds for the majority of the values), we can say that the assumption using classical theory is false and we must therefore reject the semiclassical Bohr model for the hydrogen atom?

Even if I got things right, please confirm it for me.

Any help in fully understanding this problem, would be greatly appreciated!
 

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If there is something important I did not mention, please tell me what is is and I will mention it.
 

FAQ: Rejecting the Semiclassical Bohr Model: Examining the Uncertainty Relation

What is the semiclassical Bohr model?

The semiclassical Bohr model is a model of the atom proposed by Niels Bohr in 1913. It incorporates both classical mechanics and quantum mechanics to describe the behavior of electrons in an atom.

How does the uncertainty relation relate to the semiclassical Bohr model?

The uncertainty relation, also known as Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, states that it is impossible to simultaneously know the exact position and momentum of a particle. This concept challenges the classical idea of definite trajectories of particles, which is a key aspect of the semiclassical Bohr model.

Why is the semiclassical Bohr model no longer accepted?

The semiclassical Bohr model was ultimately rejected because it could not fully explain the behavior of electrons in atoms. It did not take into account important concepts such as electron spin and the wave-like nature of particles, which are essential to understanding the behavior of atoms.

What evidence led to the rejection of the semiclassical Bohr model?

Experiments such as the double-slit experiment and the photoelectric effect provided evidence that contradicted the predictions of the semiclassical Bohr model. These experiments showed that particles do not always behave like classical objects and have wave-like properties, which the model failed to account for.

Are there any aspects of the semiclassical Bohr model that are still relevant in modern atomic theory?

While the semiclassical Bohr model is no longer accepted as a complete model of the atom, some of its concepts, such as the quantization of energy levels, are still relevant in modern atomic theory. However, these concepts have been refined and expanded upon in the development of quantum mechanics.

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