JEE Main · 2023 · Shift-IImediumATOM-105

The wave function () of 2s is given by: _{2s} = {1}{2{2}}({1}{a_0})^{1/2}(2 - {r}{a_0})e^{-r/2a_0} At r = r0, radial…

Structure of Atom · Class 11 · JEE Main Previous Year Question

Question

The wave function (Ψ\Psi) of 2s is given by: Ψ2s=122π(1a0)1/2(2ra0)er/2a0\Psi_{2s} = \frac{1}{2\sqrt{2}\pi}\left(\frac{1}{a_0}\right)^{1/2}\left(2 - \frac{r}{a_0}\right)e^{-r/2a_0}

At r=r0r = r_0, radial node is formed. Thus r0r_0 in terms of a0a_0 is:

Options
  1. a

    r0=a0r_0 = a_0

  2. b

    r0=4a0r_0 = 4a_0

  3. c

    r0=a0/2r_0 = a_0/2

  4. d

    r0=2a0r_0 = 2a_0

Correct Answerd

r0=2a0r_0 = 2a_0

Detailed Solution

🧠 The Vanishing Wave A "radial node" is a mathematical solution where the wave function (Ψ\Psi) equals zero. For the 2s orbital, this happens at a specific distance from the nucleus where the electron has zero chance of being found.

🗺️ The Root Calculation

  1. The Function: Ψ2s(2ra0)er/2a0\Psi_{2s} \propto \left( 2 - \frac{r}{a_0} \right) e^{-r/2a_0}
  2. Setting to Zero: The constant term and the exponential term (exe^{-x}) can never be zero for finite rr. Thus, the polynomial term must be zero: 2ra0=02 - \frac{r}{a_0} = 0
  3. Solving for rr: ra0=2    r=2a0\frac{r}{a_0} = 2 \implies r = 2a_0
  4. Conclusion: At r0=2a0r_0 = 2a_0, the 2s electron hits its nodal shell.

The "n-Shell" Anchor For Hydrogen-like atoms, the node for 2s is always at 2a02a_0. For 3s, there would be two roots. Just look for the term inside the parenthesis!

⚠️ Common Traps Don't be intimidated by the messy constants outside the parenthesis. The node is determined entirely by the polynomial "root" inside.

Answer: (d)\boxed{\text{Answer: (d)}}

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