How would one collapse a molecular wavefunction?

In summary, the conversation discusses using the magnetic moment operator to collapse the nuclear spin wavefunction in NMR for molecules. It also mentions the Born-Oppenheimer approximation and the components of the nuclear wavefunction such as rotation and vibration. The question of which operators to use to collapse the nuclear rotation wavefunction and the frequency of light needed is also brought up. It is suggested that sending photons with the same energy as the energy gap between vibrational states may cause a wave function collapse.
  • #1
exmachina
44
0
In NMR for molecules, one can collapse the nuclear spin wavefunction [tex]\psi_{nucspin} [/tex] by applying the magnetic moment operator [tex]\mu[/tex]. That is, [tex]\psi_{nucspin} [/tex] becomes one of the eigenfunctions of [tex]\mu[/tex]. This physically corresponds to hitting the nuclei with photons in the radiofrequency range.

In the Born-Oppenheimer approximation:
[tex]\Psi_{molecule}\approx \psi_{electron} \psi_{nuclear}[/tex]

Clearly [tex]\psi_{nucspin}[/tex] is one component of [tex]\psi_{nuclear}[/tex], there are other components of [tex]\psi_{nuclear}[/tex] such as [tex]\psi_{nucrotation},\psi_{nucvibration}[/tex], etc.

That is,
[tex]\psi_{nuclear}=f( \psi_{nucrotation},\psi_{nucvibration},\psi_{nucspin})[/tex]

So which operators would I use to collapse [tex]\psi_{nucrotation}[/tex]? What frequency of light would I need?

How do I even go about calculating something like this?
 
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  • #2
Definitely not an expert on NMR, but I would possibly think that you would just send photons of the same energy as the energy gap between vibrational states. Isn't this the only frequency at which the photon will interact with the molecules vibrational states and therefore cause a wave function collapse?
 

Related to How would one collapse a molecular wavefunction?

1. What is a molecular wavefunction?

A molecular wavefunction describes the behavior and properties of a molecule's electrons in quantum mechanics. It is a mathematical function that represents the probability of finding an electron at a particular location around the molecule.

2. Why would one want to collapse a molecular wavefunction?

Collapsing a molecular wavefunction allows scientists to observe and measure the properties of a molecule's electrons. This can provide valuable information about the molecule's structure, bonding, and chemical reactivity.

3. How is a molecular wavefunction collapsed?

A molecular wavefunction is collapsed through a process known as wavefunction collapse or quantum measurement. This is when a measurement is made on the system, causing the wavefunction to collapse into a definite value.

4. Is it possible to collapse a molecular wavefunction without affecting the molecule itself?

No, collapsing a molecular wavefunction always affects the molecule in some way. This is because the act of measurement disturbs the system and changes its state. However, the effects of this disturbance can be minimized through careful experimental design.

5. What are the implications of collapsing a molecular wavefunction?

The implications of collapsing a molecular wavefunction are significant in the field of quantum mechanics. It allows scientists to study and understand the behavior of molecules at a microscopic level, leading to advancements in fields such as chemistry, materials science, and nanotechnology.

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