Spin-orbit interaction and two inconsistent values

In summary, the conversation discusses the quantum number j and its relationship with other quantum numbers in a system. It is clarified that j cannot be equal to -1/2 and that it is different from the quantum number m.
  • #1
hokhani
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TL;DR Summary
Two inconsistent values for spin-orbit interaction in different approaches
For an electron in the orbital characterized by ##l=0## we have ##j=0\pm1/2## and so ##J^2=j(j+1)## gives ##J^2=3/4## and ##-1/4## (normalized to ##\hbar^2##). Finally, ##L.S=1/2(J^2-L^2-S^2)## results in ##L.S=0## and ##-1##. However, according to ##L.S=l_xs_x+l_ys_y+l_zs_z## we find ##L.S=0## for ##l=0##. I don't know where is my mistake?
 
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  • #2
The quantum number ##j## is the characteristic AM of the system. We have ##j = 0, \frac 1 2, 1, \frac 3 2 \dots##

We never have ##j = - \frac 1 2##. This is not a valid quantum number for ##j##.

You are confusing this with the quantum number ##m##. For ##j = \frac 1 2##, we have ##m = \pm \frac 1 2##.
 
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FAQ: Spin-orbit interaction and two inconsistent values

What is spin-orbit interaction?

Spin-orbit interaction is a phenomenon in quantum mechanics where the spin of a particle (such as an electron) is influenced by its motion around an electrically charged nucleus. This interaction is caused by the magnetic field created by the moving particle, and it results in a coupling between the particle's spin and its orbital angular momentum.

How does spin-orbit interaction affect the energy levels of an atom?

Spin-orbit interaction causes a splitting of energy levels in an atom. This is because the spin and orbital angular momentum of the electron are no longer independent, and they interact with each other. This results in two different energy levels for each orbital, one with a higher energy and one with a lower energy.

What are the two inconsistent values associated with spin-orbit interaction?

The two inconsistent values associated with spin-orbit interaction are the spin and orbital angular momentum. In classical mechanics, these two quantities are independent and can have any value. However, in quantum mechanics, they are coupled due to the spin-orbit interaction, resulting in two different values.

How can we measure the effects of spin-orbit interaction?

The effects of spin-orbit interaction can be measured through spectroscopy experiments. By studying the energy levels of atoms, scientists can observe the splitting caused by spin-orbit interaction and determine the strength of this interaction in different elements.

What is the significance of spin-orbit interaction in materials science?

Spin-orbit interaction plays a crucial role in materials science, particularly in the field of spintronics. This is because it allows for the manipulation of an electron's spin, which can be used to store and process information in electronic devices. Additionally, spin-orbit interaction is also important in understanding the properties of materials, such as their magnetic and electrical behavior.

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