Chapter 5, Problem 64A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The representation of n in the quantum mechanical model of the atom needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

In quantum mechanical model of the atom electrons are treated as wave. The model is like Bohr’s model, the model limits the energy of electrons. This mechanical model of atom does not try to explain the direction of an electron.

Answer to Problem 64A

In the quantum mechanical model of the atom n represents principal quantum number.

Explanation of Solution

The quantum mechanical model allocates 4 quantum numbers to atomic orbital. The first one is designated by symbol  n. It indicates the atomic orbitals energy and relative size. The orbital becomes larger with increase  n.  The atoms’ energy is increasing because the electrons spend a lot of time faraway from the nucleus. Thus, atoms major energy level is specified by principal quantum number n.

Conclusion

The quantum mechanical method of the atom is called wave mechanical model of the atom because in this model, electrons are treated as wave.