Trivia: Potential of the hydrogen atom

In summary, the potential energy of a hydrogen atom is dependent on the distance between the electron and the nucleus, and can be calculated using the equation PE = -k(Q1Q2)/r. It is directly related to the electron orbitals and decreases as the electron moves closer to the nucleus. This potential energy is significant in chemical reactions as it determines the stability of the atom and its likelihood to undergo reactions.
  • #1
jewbinson
127
0
When (what year and by whom?) was it discovered that the hydrogen potential is V=-1/r ? I imagine this was deduced from experimental data... amirite? Quite urgent...
From wiki it looks like it was found in teh 1920's but I'm not certain so I just want to check. Thanks in advance
 
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  • #2
It follows from Coulomb's Law for the electrostatic force between two (point) charges, which was first established experimentally in the late 1700's.
 

FAQ: Trivia: Potential of the hydrogen atom

1. What is the potential energy of a hydrogen atom?

The potential energy of a hydrogen atom is dependent on the distance between the electron and the nucleus. As the distance increases, the potential energy decreases, and as the distance decreases, the potential energy increases.

2. How is the potential energy of a hydrogen atom calculated?

The potential energy of a hydrogen atom can be calculated using the equation PE = -k(Q1Q2)/r, where k is the Coulomb constant, Q1 and Q2 are the charges of the electron and nucleus respectively, and r is the distance between them.

3. What is the relationship between potential energy and electron orbitals in a hydrogen atom?

The potential energy of a hydrogen atom is directly related to the electron orbitals. As the electron moves from a higher energy level to a lower energy level, the potential energy decreases.

4. How does the potential energy of a hydrogen atom change as the electron moves closer to the nucleus?

As the electron moves closer to the nucleus, the potential energy of the hydrogen atom decreases. This is because the attractive force between the positively charged nucleus and negatively charged electron increases, resulting in a lower potential energy.

5. What is the significance of the potential energy of a hydrogen atom in chemical reactions?

The potential energy of a hydrogen atom plays a crucial role in chemical reactions as it determines the stability of the atom. A lower potential energy indicates a more stable atom, making it less likely to undergo chemical reactions.

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