Are Electron Orbitals Static or Dynamic?

In summary, electron orbitals are not fixed in space and can change shape based on the energy and position of the electrons. They do not have a defined path, but rather exist as a probability distribution. They are a part of the electron cloud and can overlap, allowing for the formation of chemical bonds.
  • #1
Ryan Reed
51
4
Do the orbitals of electrons change positions within their energy level relative to the nucleus or are they statically "attached" to the nucleus? To try and put this into perspective, would the orbitals of the electrons be like nailing a balloon(orbital) straight to the ball(nucleus) or nailing it to a free axis attached to the ball? Or would it be neither?
 
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  • #2
I think there's a free axis. The relative spins between the nuclear and orbital wave functions can be fixed, but the other degrees of freedom are not constrained.
 

Related to Are Electron Orbitals Static or Dynamic?

1. Are electron orbitals fixed in space?

No, electron orbitals are not fixed in space. They are constantly moving and changing based on the energy and position of the electrons.

2. Can electron orbitals change their shape?

Yes, electron orbitals can change their shape. The shape of the orbital is determined by the energy state and position of the electron.

3. Do electron orbitals have a defined path?

No, electron orbitals do not have a defined path like the orbits of planets around the sun. They exist as a probability distribution of where the electron may be found.

4. How do electron orbitals relate to the electron cloud?

Electron orbitals are a part of the electron cloud. The electron cloud is a visual representation of the probability distribution of where the electron may be found at a given moment.

5. Can electron orbitals overlap?

Yes, electron orbitals can overlap. This happens when electrons are in close proximity to each other, such as in a covalent bond. The overlapping of orbitals allows for the formation of chemical bonds.

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