KCET · Chemistry · Structure of Atom

Which of the following is the CORRECT statement about \(\Psi^2\)?

A \(\Psi^2\) represents atomic orbit
B Probability density of the electron at that point
C \(\Psi^2 \neq 0\) for nodes
D \(\Psi^2\) has no physical meaning

Verified Solution

Answer & Solution

Correct Answer

(B) Probability density of the electron at that point

Step-by-step Solution

Detailed explanation

\(\Psi\) represents the wave function of an electron, which has no physical significance.

\(\Psi^2\) represents the probability density of finding the electron at a given point in space.

For nodes, the probability of finding an electron is zero, so \(\Psi^2 = 0\).

Therefore, \(\Psi^2\) represents the probability density of the electron at that point.

Answer: Probability density of the electron at that point

Apply the relevant identity from the chapter and substitute the values established in the previous step, keeping the original constraint in view.

Use the simplified expression to isolate the unknown, then plug the result back into the question setup to confirm the working is internally consistent.

Cross-check against a boundary or limiting case. Both the dimensional balance and the qualitative behaviour at the extreme should agree with the candidate answer.

Combine the steps above to identify the correct option. The remaining choices each fail at least one of the consistency, dimensional, or boundary checks.

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