What is the angular velocity of an electron around the nucleus

In summary, the angular velocity of an electron around the nucleus varies depending on the charge of the nucleus and the distance between the electron and the nucleus. The highest velocities are seen in outer electrons of gold, which can travel at significant fractions of the speed of light. It is important to consider relativistic effects when calculating the properties of such electrons. However, in quantum mechanics, electrons are not actually spinning charges around another charge, so any claims about their angular velocity should be viewed with caution.
  • #1
dudebud
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0
Can somebody tell me what is the angular velocity of an electron (more or less) around the nucleus. (it doesn't matter whether it's one in the most inner shell or the most outter, I just need an average value)

thanks
 
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  • #2
That depends on the charge of the nucleus as well as the distance from the electron to the nucleus. Some of the highest velosities known are for outer electrons of gold: they can travel at significant (~50%) fractions of the speed of light. Side note: at such speeds it becomes important to include relativistic effects when calculating the properties of such electrons.

Of course electrons are not really spinning charges arround another charge as far as QM is conserned, so you should view claims like the one above with some caution... :smile:
 

1. What is angular velocity?

Angular velocity is a measure of how fast an object is rotating or moving around a fixed point. It is usually expressed in radians per second.

2. How is angular velocity related to the electron's orbit around the nucleus?

The angular velocity of an electron around the nucleus is the rate at which the electron is rotating or moving around the nucleus. It is determined by the electron's speed and the distance between the electron and the nucleus.

3. What is the magnitude of the angular velocity of an electron around the nucleus?

The magnitude of the angular velocity of an electron around the nucleus is approximately 2.2 x 10^6 radians per second. However, this value can vary depending on the specific energy level and orbital of the electron.

4. How does the angular velocity of an electron change in different energy levels?

The angular velocity of an electron increases as it moves to higher energy levels and decreases as it moves to lower energy levels. This is because the speed and distance of the electron from the nucleus change as it moves between energy levels.

5. Is the angular velocity of an electron constant in its orbit around the nucleus?

No, the angular velocity of an electron is not constant in its orbit around the nucleus. It changes as the electron moves between energy levels and can also vary within the same energy level depending on the shape and orientation of the electron's orbit.

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