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Chapter 37: Problem 3

The probability of finding an electron at a particular location in a hydrogen atom is directly proportional to a) its energy. b) its momentum. c) its wave function. d) the square of its wave function. e) the product of the position coordinate and the square of the wave function. f) none of the above.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: (d) the square of its wave function

Step by step solution

01

Understand the wave function and its relation to the probability of finding an electron

In quantum mechanics, the wave function (usually denoted by 𝜓) describes the quantum state of a particle. The probability of finding the particle in a particular region of space is proportional to the square of the wave function. In mathematical terms, Probability ∝ |𝜓|^2.
02

Identify the correct option based on the analysis

From the analysis, we know that the probability of finding an electron in a particular location is directly proportional to the square of its wave function. Thus, the correct option is (d) the square of its wave function.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

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