The radial probability density for the electron in the ground state of a hydrogen atom has a peak at about:
A)0.5 pm
B)5 pm
C)50 pm
D)500 pm
E)5000 pm

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The radial probability density for the ground state of a hydrogen atom is given by the expression 4πr²Ψ², where Ψ is the wave function for the ground state. This expression has a peak at r = a₀/2, where a₀ is the Bohr radius. For hydrogen, a₀ = 52.9 pm, so the peak occurs at r = 26.45 pm or about 50 pm. Therefore, the best choice is C.

The Radial Probability Density for the Electron in the Ground