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ralqs
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To what extent does the Schrodinger equation apply to an atom as a whole?
dextercioby said:There's no such thing as <an atom as a whole>, but rather a multiparticle system: at least an electron and with it a positively charged nucleus. So SE will definitely apply, as it's the fundamental equation of QM.
dextercioby said:There's no such thing as <an atom as a whole>, but rather a multiparticle system: at least an electron and with it a positively charged nucleus. So SE will definitely apply, as it's the fundamental equation of QM.
ralqs said:So it applies exactly? How do you know? What's the proof?
The Schrodinger equation is a mathematical expression that describes the behavior of a quantum system, such as an atom, over time. It was developed by Austrian physicist Erwin Schrodinger in 1926 and is a central concept in quantum mechanics.
The Schrodinger equation is used to describe the behavior of electrons in an atom. It helps to determine the probability of finding an electron in a specific location around the nucleus of an atom.
The Schrodinger equation, along with other principles of quantum mechanics, provides a theoretical framework for understanding the structure and behavior of atoms. It helps to explain the discrete energy levels of electrons in atoms and how they interact with each other.
No, there are other equations and principles in quantum mechanics that are used to describe atoms, such as the Heisenberg uncertainty principle and the Pauli exclusion principle. However, the Schrodinger equation is the most commonly used and fundamental equation in this field.
The Schrodinger equation is used in various fields, including chemistry, physics, and engineering, to predict and understand the behavior of atoms and molecules. It is essential for developing new materials, drugs, and technologies that rely on the properties of atoms and their interactions.