Download Quantum Theory and Electrons as Waves

THE QUANTUM MODEL
QUANTUM MODEL OF THE ATOM

If light could have particle-like behavior, then
could matter have wave-like behavior?

De Broglie proposed that electrons could
behave like waves.
ELECTRONS AS WAVES

Electrons exist at certain frequencies, as waves,
corresponding to specific/quantized energy levels.

The motion of electrons can be diffracted like light,
causing ripples and bends
ELECTRONS AS WAVES

When electron waves overlap, they can
interfere, which an enhance or decrease
Wave
Wave
HEISENBERG UNCERTAINTY PRINCIPLE

1) Why does observing the electron change its
behavior?

2) If there are wave and particle properties,
where is it in the atom?
HEISENBERG UNCERTAINTY PRINCIPLE

It is impossible to simultaneously measure
both position and velocity (or momentum) of a
microscopic particle with absolute accuracy or
certainty.

How does measuring alter position and
velosity?
SCHRODINGER EQUATION.
SCHRODINGER EQUATION

A complex equation that has multiple solutions.

The solutions are the mathematical
descriptions of waves of very specific
frequencies (quanta!)
SCHRODINGER EQUATION

Quantum Theory mathematically explains wave
properties of electrons and similarly sized
particles.

The solutions described shapes in space that
electrons were highly likely to be moving
around in.
SCHRODINGER EQUATION

Orbital is a 3-D region around the nucleus
wherein an electron is likely to be found.
ATOMIC ORBITALS AND QUANTUM NUMBERS

An electron’s quantum numbers describe:
 primary
 How
 shape
energy level (n)
close to the nucleus it is
of momentum ( l )
 direction
 spin
of momentum ( ml )
direction ( ms )
ATOMIC ORBITALS AND QUANTUM NUMBERS