Quantum & Atomic Physics
7 terms
Schrödinger Equation
A fundamental partial differential equation describing how the quantum wave function of a physical system evolves deterministically over…
Quantum & Atomic PhysicsSelection Rules
A set of quantum mechanical rules constraining allowed radiative transitions between atomic energy states.
Quantum & Atomic PhysicsSpin-Orbit Coupling
A relativistic quantum interaction between an electron's intrinsic spin magnetic moment and the internal magnetic field created by its…
Quantum & Atomic PhysicsSpontaneous Emission
The process by which an excited atom or quantum system spontaneously decays to a lower energy state, emitting a photon of random phase and…
Quantum & Atomic PhysicsStark Effect
The shifting and splitting of atomic spectral lines caused by the presence of an external static electric field.
Quantum & Atomic PhysicsStern-Gerlach Experiment
A landmark 1922 experiment that proved space quantization and the intrinsic angular momentum (spin) of subatomic particles.
Quantum & Atomic PhysicsStimulated Emission
The process in which an incoming photon stimulates an excited atom to drop to a lower state, emitting a second identical photon.