For each of the questions, four choices have been provided. Select the correct alternative. Zeeman and Stark effects can be explained by _______ quantum number. (a) principal (b) azimuthal (c) magnetic (d) spin

Short Answer

Expert verified
The magnetic quantum number (m_l) is responsible for explaining the Zeeman and Stark effects. This is because the magnetic quantum number arises due to the motion of the electron around the nucleus and describes the orientation of the electron's angular momentum with respect to the external magnetic or electric fields. The interaction of the electron's magnetic moment with these fields results in the splitting of spectral lines, which is observed in the Zeeman and Stark effects.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding quantum numbers

Quantum numbers are used to describe the state of an electron in an atom. There are four quantum numbers: principal (n), azimuthal (l), magnetic (m_l), and spin (m_s). Each of these numbers has a specific meaning and is used to describe a certain property of the electron within the atom.
02

Understanding Zeeman and Stark effects

The Zeeman effect refers to the splitting of spectral lines of atoms when they are subjected to a strong external magnetic field. The Stark effect, on the other hand, refers to the splitting of spectral lines when the atoms are subjected to a strong electric field. Both of these effects are related to the interaction of the electron's magnetic moment with the external fields.
03

Identifying the correct quantum number

Out of the four quantum numbers, the magnetic quantum number (m_l) is related to the magnetic moment of the electron, which determines the electron's response to an external magnetic field. Therefore, the magnetic quantum number (c) is responsible for explaining the Zeeman and Stark effects.
04

Providing the reasoning

The magnetic quantum number (m_l) arises due to the motion of the electron around the nucleus and describes the orientation of the electron's angular momentum with respect to the external magnetic field (or electric field). This orientation of the electron's angular momentum is responsible for the observed Zeeman and Stark effects, which manifests as a splitting of the spectral lines. Hence, the magnetic quantum number is the correct answer.

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