Quantum & Atomic Physics
7 terms
Schrödinger Equation
Quantum & Atomic Physics
Energy (Eigenvalue E in Joules or eV)
A fundamental partial differential equation describing how the quantum wave function of a physical system evolves deterministically over time.
i ℏ (∂ψ / ∂t) = Ĥ ψ, Ĥ ψ = E ψ
Selection Rules
Quantum & Atomic Physics
Dimensionless Quantum Rules
A set of quantum mechanical rules constraining allowed radiative transitions between atomic energy states.
Δl = ±1, Δm_l = 0, ±1
Spin-Orbit Coupling
Quantum & Atomic Physics
eV (Energy Shift)
A relativistic quantum interaction between an electron's intrinsic spin magnetic moment and the internal magnetic field created by its orbital motion around the nucleus.
H_SO = ξ(r) L · S
Spontaneous Emission
Quantum & Atomic Physics
s⁻¹ (Transition Rate)
The process by which an excited atom or quantum system spontaneously decays to a lower energy state, emitting a photon of random phase and direction.
Rate = A₂₁ N₂
Stark Effect
Quantum & Atomic Physics
eV (Energy Shift)
The shifting and splitting of atomic spectral lines caused by the presence of an external static electric field.
ΔE = -p · E_ext (First-order: ΔE ∝ E_ext)
Stern-Gerlach Experiment
Quantum & Atomic Physics
N (Force), J/T (Magnetic Moment)
A landmark 1922 experiment that proved space quantization and the intrinsic angular momentum (spin) of subatomic particles.
F_z = μ_z (∂B_z / ∂z), S_z = ± ℏ / 2
Stimulated Emission
Quantum & Atomic Physics
s⁻¹ (Transition Rate)
The process in which an incoming photon stimulates an excited atom to drop to a lower state, emitting a second identical photon.
Rate = B₂₁ ρ(ν) N₂