Find the spin-orbit energy states associated with each of the energy terms in helium.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the spin-orbit interaction and the energy states associated with it for helium atoms. This entails understanding quantum mechanics concepts, specifically how electron spins and their orbital angular momenta interact to contribute to the total energy levels of helium.
Answer
Singlet and triplet states.
The final answer involves considering the spin-orbit coupling contributions to the energy terms in helium through the corrections to the atomic terms. The specific energy states are often given by singlet (S=0) and triplet (S=1) states, corresponding to different spin configurations.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer involves considering the spin-orbit coupling contributions to the energy terms in helium through the corrections to the atomic terms. The specific energy states are often given by singlet (S=0) and triplet (S=1) states, corresponding to different spin configurations.
More Information
The singlet state is when the spins of the two electrons in the helium atom are antiparallel (S=0), leading to a lower energy state, while the triplet state is when the spins are parallel (S=1), leading to a higher energy state.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the terms singlet and triplet; remember that singlet has S=0 (antiparallel spins) and triplet has S=1 (parallel spins).
Sources
- The Helium Atom - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
- Helium Energy Levels - HyperPhysics Concepts - hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu
