A mathematical function psi whose square gives the probability density of finding an electron at a point.
Practise Atomic Structure & Periodicity All Atomic Structure & Periodicity topics
The wave function, symbol psi, is a mathematical function that describes the quantum state of an electron. Its square gives the probability density of finding the electron at a point, and the total probability over all space must equal one. The wave function can be positive or negative, and this sign, or phase, matters for how orbitals overlap and bond. Where psi is zero, called a node, the probability of finding the electron is zero. Wave functions are solutions of the Schrodinger equation.
Key ideas: The wave function psi describes the state of an electron, and psi^2 gives the probability density of finding it at a point. Normalization means the integral of psi^2 over all space is 1. psi itself has no direct physical meaning, can be positive or negative (phase), and nodes are where psi = 0.
Common mistakes and connections: Students think psi is the probability or that it is a physical wave in space; only psi squared is observable. Sign of psi matters in bonding, because overlapping waves of same sign add (bonding) and opposite sign cancel (antibonding). It is the solution of the Schrodinger equation.
The wave function of an electron in a box has a node at the centre for n=2; its square gives the probability of finding the electron. The interactive lesson shows this as a live animation or chart.
In a 2s orbital there is a radial node, a spherical surface where psi is zero, so the electron is never found on that surface.
A mathematical function psi whose square gives the probability density of finding an electron at a point.
Wave Function is a advanced topic in Atomic Structure & Periodicity. It builds on beginner and intermediate topics, so review those first if needed.
Study these earlier topics in Atomic Structure & Periodicity first: Limitations of Bohr Model, de Broglie Hypothesis, Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle.
The next topics in Atomic Structure & Periodicity are Schrodinger Equation and Atomic Orbital.
Yes. The interactive lesson includes a self-check question on Wave Function, and the Atomic Structure & Periodicity quiz draws on every topic in this area.
Wave Function is topic 50 of 115 in Atomic Structure & Periodicity.