wang
(Wang)
#1
Figure 4: The Stern-Gerlach apparatus
SG deals with measuringS, or equivalentlym. To measurem, we place it in a magnetic
fieldB, which produces an energy dependenceEand a forceFon the electron, given by
E=−m·B F=∇~(m·B) (2.22)
Thus, a magnetic moment placed in an inhomogeneous magnetic field willexperience a force,
which will lead to bending of the trajectory and is observable. To create an inhomogeneous
magnetic field, one uses asymmetrical poles, as in the figure above. Henceforth, the entire
SG apparatus will simply be represented by a box, as in the figure. A beam of neutral silver
atoms is now sent trough the SG apparatus (along thex-axis) and the signal is received on
a screen placed perpendicularly to the beam.
Figure 5: The Stern-Gerlach experimental set-up
The experimental outcomes are as follows,
