Chapter 2: The Quantum-Mechanical Model of the Atom

These flashcards cover key concepts related to the quantum-mechanical model of the atom, including the behavior of electrons, electromagnetic radiation, and the significance of quantum numbers.

Quantum Mechanical Model

The atomic model that explains the strange behavior of electrons, illustrating that subatomic particles behave differently than macroscopic objects.

Wave–Matter Duality

The concept that subatomic particles, like electrons, exhibit both wave-like and particle-like properties.

Electromagnetic Radiation

A form of energy that includes visible light, consisting of perpendicular oscillating waves of electric and magnetic fields.

Wavelength (λ)

The distance between successive crests of a wave, determining the color of light.

Amplitude

The height of a wave, which is a measure of light intensity; larger amplitude means brighter light.

Photoelectric Effect

The phenomenon where electrons are emitted from a metal surface when light shines on it, demonstrating that light has particle-like properties.

Bohr Model of the Atom

A model proposing that electrons revolve around the nucleus in defined orbits, with energy levels that are quantized.

Quantum Numbers

Four numbers (principle, angular momentum, magnetic, and spin) that describe the size, shape, orientation, and behavior of electrons in atoms.

Emission Spectrum

A spectrum of light emitted by atoms when energy is absorbed and then released, characterized by specific wavelengths unique to each element.

Schrödinger’s Equation

An equation that allows us to calculate the probability of finding an electron with a certain amount of energy at a specific location.