An isolated hydrogen atom is excited such that its single electron moves in a…
PHYSICS · Multi-part · AP · Physics 2: Algebra-based · Electric Force Field and Potential · Electric Force Field and Potential
Problem
An isolated hydrogen atom is excited such that its single electron moves in a circular orbit with a period of T=1.50×10−16s. Assume the only forces acting on the electron arise from its interaction with the proton nucleus.
(a) Write an algebraic expression for the orbital period T in terms of the orbital radius r and the speed v of the electron.
(b) Using fundamental principles, determine the orbital radius corresponding to the stated period. Provide the value in metres.
(c) Calculate the electron’s speed in this orbit. Express your answer in scientific notation with units.