Waveform produced by an atomic transition

In summary, a hydrogen atom emits a spherical wave photon when its electron makes a quantum jump from a higher energy state to a lower one. This wave can vary with angle depending on the angular momentum carried by the photon. However, all photons carry one unit of angular momentum, which is why there are specific selection rules for allowed transitions. Additionally, there are other transitions, such as quadrupole transitions, for which the photon carries both spin and orbital angular momentum.
  • #1
hempyelmo
1
0
Greetings Physics Forums! This is my first post.

A physical phenomena that I know for a long time is that when an atom (let's say hydrogen) has an electron that make a quantum jump from a higher energy state to a lower it emits a photon. Suppose the hydrogen atom is isolated from the external world. Can we associate a wave with that photon and if so, what is its form? Spherical? I really need some course in quantum electrodynamics...

Thanks
 
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  • #2
It is a spherical wave, but can vary with angle, depending on the angular momentum carried by the photon.
 
  • #3
clem said:
It is a spherical wave, but can vary with angle, depending on the angular momentum carried by the photon.

Not sure what you mean here ... photons always carry one unit of angular momentum, as far as I know. That is one of the principal reasons for the transition dipole selection rule for allowed transitions. Are you making a distinction between photons with different helicities (i.e. spin of +1 vs. spin of -1)?
 
  • #4
There are other transitions besides Delta L=1 dipole transitions.
There are quadrupole and higher transitions for which the photon has orbital angular momentum in addition to its spin 1 angular momentum.
 

FAQ: Waveform produced by an atomic transition

What is a waveform produced by an atomic transition?

A waveform produced by an atomic transition is a graphical representation of the energy levels of an atom as it transitions from one state to another. This transition can occur due to the absorption or emission of electromagnetic radiation, resulting in a specific pattern or shape in the waveform.

How is a waveform produced by an atomic transition measured?

The waveform produced by an atomic transition can be measured using spectroscopy techniques. These techniques involve passing light through a sample of atoms and analyzing the resulting spectrum to identify the specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed or emitted by the atoms.

What information can be obtained from a waveform produced by an atomic transition?

A waveform produced by an atomic transition can provide information about the energy levels and transitions of atoms, as well as the specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed or emitted. This information can be used to study the structure and properties of atoms, as well as for practical applications such as in medical imaging or chemical analysis.

Can different types of atoms produce different waveforms?

Yes, different types of atoms can produce different waveforms due to variations in their energy levels and the specific transitions they undergo. This is why spectroscopy is a valuable tool in identifying and studying different elements and compounds.

How does the waveform produced by an atomic transition relate to the electromagnetic spectrum?

The waveform produced by an atomic transition is directly related to the electromagnetic spectrum. The specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed or emitted by the atoms correspond to different regions of the electromagnetic spectrum, such as infrared, visible, or ultraviolet light. By analyzing the waveform, scientists can determine which wavelengths are involved in the atomic transition and gain a better understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum.

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