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wdlang
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it is obvious that the hamiltonian of an atom is time reversal invariant
but how can an atom have non-zero magnetic moment?
but how can an atom have non-zero magnetic moment?
Time reversal symmetry is a fundamental principle in physics that states that the laws of physics should behave the same way if time is reversed. This means that if we were to observe a physical process in reverse, it would still follow the same laws and look the same.
A nonzero magnetic moment breaks time reversal symmetry because it introduces a preferred direction in the system. This means that if we were to observe the system in reverse, the direction of the magnetic moment would also be reversed, breaking the symmetry.
Not necessarily. It depends on the specific properties and interactions of the atom. In some cases, the effects of the nonzero magnetic moment may cancel out, preserving time reversal symmetry. In other cases, it may be broken.
Some common examples include hydrogen, helium, and iron atoms. These atoms all have unpaired electrons, which contribute to their nonzero magnetic moments. However, there are many other atoms and molecules with nonzero magnetic moments as well.
The breaking of time reversal symmetry can lead to a variety of effects, depending on the specific system and interactions involved. In some cases, it may affect the energy levels and transitions of the atom. It may also influence the way the atom interacts with external fields or other particles.