Molecular Spin Number: Uncovering the Secrets of Nuclear Spin in Molecules

In summary, when determining the spin number of a molecule like water, one usually only considers the total spin of the electrons. The spin of the individual protons and neutrons is not relevant. In some cases, the spin of the nuclei may be relevant, but it is not typically seen for molecules or atoms. In MRI, the energy of molecules in the body is influenced by the entire spin of the molecule under the magnetic field, but MRI itself probes individual nuclear spins.
  • #1
TheCanadian
367
13
How does one go about finding the spin number for a molecule like water for example? Do we consider the spin of the nuclei (e.g. proton, neutrons), and also look at which electrons are shared and not?
 
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  • #2
One usually considers only the total spin of the electrons, which is what is relevant spectroscopically. The spin of the nuclei might be relevant in some cases, but I have never seen the total spin of a molecule, or an atom for that matter.

The spin of the individual protons and neutrons is not relevant,only the total spin of the nuclei.
 
  • #3
DrClaude said:
One usually considers only the total spin of the electrons, which is what is relevant spectroscopically. The spin of the nuclei might be relevant in some cases, but I have never seen the total spin of a molecule, or an atom for that matter.

The spin of the individual protons and neutrons is not relevant,only the total spin of the nuclei.

Oh really? So if considering MRI for example, doesn't the energy of molecules in the person's body depend on the entire spin of the molecule under influence from the magnetic field?
 
  • #4
TheCanadian said:
Oh really? So if considering MRI for example, doesn't the energy of molecules in the person's body depend on the entire spin of the molecule under influence from the magnetic field?
No, MRI probes individual nuclear spins.
 

Related to Molecular Spin Number: Uncovering the Secrets of Nuclear Spin in Molecules

1. What is the spin number of molecules?

The spin number of molecules refers to the intrinsic angular momentum of a molecule, which can be either positive or negative. It is a quantum property that affects the behavior of molecules in certain environments.

2. How is the spin number of molecules measured?

The spin number of molecules is typically measured using techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) or electron spin resonance (ESR). These techniques use magnetic fields to manipulate and detect the spin of molecules.

3. What factors can affect the spin number of molecules?

The spin number of molecules can be affected by several factors, including the type and number of atoms in the molecule, the presence of external magnetic fields, and the temperature and pressure of the environment in which the molecule is located.

4. Why is the spin number of molecules important in chemistry?

The spin number of molecules is important in chemistry because it can provide valuable information about the electronic and structural properties of molecules. It can also affect the chemical reactivity and stability of molecules, making it a crucial factor to consider in many chemical reactions.

5. Can the spin number of molecules be changed?

Yes, the spin number of molecules can be changed through various methods, such as applying external magnetic fields or altering the temperature and pressure of the environment. Additionally, certain chemical reactions can also change the spin number of molecules.

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