Enter the principal quantum number into the calculator to determine the Bohr radius for an electron orbit in a hydrogen atom.
Bohr Radius Formula
The following formula is used to calculate the Bohr radius:
r = a₀ * n²
Variables:
- r is the Bohr radius (meters)
- a₀ is the Bohr radius constant (approximately 5.29177210903 x 10^-11 meters)
- n is the principal quantum number (dimensionless)
To calculate the Bohr radius, multiply the square of the principal quantum number by the Bohr radius constant.
What is a Bohr Radius?
The Bohr radius is the radius of the smallest orbit in the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom, where the electron orbits the nucleus. It is a fundamental physical constant and represents the most probable distance between the nucleus and the electron in a hydrogen atom in its ground state. The Bohr radius is a key concept in quantum mechanics and atomic physics.
How to Calculate Bohr Radius?
The following steps outline how to calculate the Bohr Radius:
- First, determine the principal quantum number (n).
- Next, use the Bohr radius constant (a₀), which is approximately 5.29177210903 x 10^-11 meters.
- Then, gather the formula from above: r = a₀ * n².
- Finally, calculate the Bohr Radius (r) in meters.
- After inserting the variable and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem:
Use the following variable as an example problem to test your knowledge.
principal quantum number (n) = 2
