Bohr radius explained

The Bohr radius is a fundamental constant in atomic physics, representing the most probable distance between the nucleus and the electron in a hydrogen atom in its ground state. It is named after Niels Bohr, a Danish physicist who introduced it as a key component of the Bohr model of the atom.

Symbol

The symbol for the Bohr radius is a0.

Size and SI System

The Bohr radius is a very small unit of length, approximately 0.529 angstroms (or 5.29 × 10⁻¹¹ meters), and is used as a derived constant within the SI system. It serves as a reference scale for atomic dimensions, providing a basis for understanding the size of atoms and molecules.

Origin

The Bohr radius was first introduced by Niels Bohr in 1913 as part of his groundbreaking atomic model. This model posited that electrons occupy specific energy levels or shells around the nucleus, with the Bohr radius defining the radius of the first energy level in a single-electron system like hydrogen.

Applications

The Bohr radius is primarily used in atomic physics and quantum mechanics. While the Bohr model itself is outdated, the radius remains relevant for:

  • Calculating atomic dimensions.
  • Understanding single-electron systems like hydrogen.
  • Providing a reference scale for quantum mechanics equations.

Convert bohr radius to other length units

In this section, you find an overview of all conversions from bohr radius to other length units available on this website.