The probability density of a particle at a distance r from the nucleus is essentially the
A) probability of finding the particle within a small volume about r.
B) probability per unit area of finding the particle within a unit area centered on r.
C) probability per unit length of finding the particle within a unit length of r.
D) probability per unit volume of finding the particle within a small volume about r.

Question

The probability density of a particle at a distance r from the nucleus is essentially the
A) probability of finding the particle within a small volume about r. 
B) probability per unit area of finding the particle within a unit area centered on r. 
C) probability per unit length of finding the particle within a unit length of r. 
D) probability per unit volume of finding the particle within a small volume about r.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The probability density is defined as the probability per unit volume. Therefore, option D is the correct choice as it states the probability per unit volume of finding the particle within a small volume about r. Options A, B, and C are not correct as they are referring to probabilities per unit volume, area, and length respectively.

The Probability Density of a Particle at a Distance R