Is the concept of electron shells conceptually realted to quantum tunnelling?

Thread starter Galteeth
Start date Oct 14, 2009
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Concept Electron Quantum Quantum tunnelling Tunnelling

In summary, electron shells are regions around an atom's nucleus that determine the likelihood of finding electrons. They are related to quantum tunnelling, which is the ability of particles to pass through barriers. In chemical reactions, the arrangement of electrons in an atom's shells affects their ability to participate. Quantum tunnelling also plays a role by allowing energetically unfavorable reactions to occur. These concepts are used in everyday technologies such as transistors and solar cells. Scientists study and observe electron shells and quantum tunnelling through various experimental techniques. Understanding the relationship between them has practical applications in designing materials and developing advanced technologies such as quantum computers.

Oct 14, 2009

Galteeth

Or not?

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Oct 14, 2009

Avodyne

Science Advisor

Not.

Oct 15, 2009

granpa

might look at josephson junctions. the tunneling has to do with some 'order parameter' thing

Related to Is the concept of electron shells conceptually realted to quantum tunnelling?

1. What are electron shells and how are they related to quantum tunnelling?

Electron shells are regions around an atom's nucleus where electrons are most likely to be found. Quantum tunnelling is a phenomenon in which a particle can pass through a barrier even if it does not have enough energy to overcome it. Electron shells are related to quantum tunnelling because the energy levels of electrons in different shells can affect their ability to tunnel through barriers.

2. How do electron shells and quantum tunnelling play a role in chemical reactions?

In chemical reactions, electrons are transferred or shared between atoms. The specific arrangement of electrons in an atom's electron shells determines how easily electrons can be transferred between atoms. Quantum tunnelling can also play a role in chemical reactions by allowing electrons to move through barriers and participate in reactions that would otherwise be energetically unfavorable.

3. Are electron shells and quantum tunnelling concepts used in everyday technologies?

Yes, electron shells and quantum tunnelling are used in many everyday technologies. For example, transistors in computers use quantum tunnelling to control the flow of electrons, and solar cells use quantum tunnelling to convert sunlight into electricity.

4. How do scientists study and observe electron shells and quantum tunnelling?

Scientists use various experimental techniques, such as spectroscopy and electron microscopy, to study and observe electron shells and quantum tunnelling. These techniques allow scientists to measure the energy levels of electrons and observe their movements and behaviors.

5. Are there any practical applications of understanding the relationship between electron shells and quantum tunnelling?

Yes, understanding the relationship between electron shells and quantum tunnelling has many practical applications. For example, it can help in the design of new materials with specific electronic properties, such as superconductors. It can also aid in the development of more efficient and advanced technologies, such as quantum computers.