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Ch.7 - Quantum-Mechanical Model of the Atom
Chapter 7, Problem 50

The smallest atoms can themselves exhibit quantum-mechanical behavior. Calculate the de Broglie wavelength (in pm) of a hydrogen atom traveling at 475 m/s.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

de Broglie Wavelength

The de Broglie wavelength is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics that describes the wave-like behavior of particles. It is given by the formula λ = h/p, where λ is the wavelength, h is Planck's constant, and p is the momentum of the particle. For a moving particle, momentum is calculated as the product of its mass and velocity. This concept illustrates the dual nature of matter, where particles exhibit both wave and particle characteristics.
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Planck's Constant

Planck's constant (h) is a fundamental physical constant that relates the energy of a photon to the frequency of its associated electromagnetic wave. Its value is approximately 6.626 x 10^-34 J·s. In the context of the de Broglie wavelength, it serves as a bridge between classical and quantum physics, allowing for the calculation of wavelengths associated with moving particles, such as atoms and electrons.
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Momentum

Momentum is a vector quantity defined as the product of an object's mass and its velocity (p = mv). In the context of quantum mechanics, momentum plays a crucial role in determining the behavior of particles, including their de Broglie wavelength. For a hydrogen atom, knowing its mass and velocity allows us to calculate its momentum, which is essential for finding its associated wavelength and understanding its quantum behavior.
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