Skip to content

In this communication I wish first to show in the simplest…

“In this communication I wish first to show in the simplest case of the hydrogen atom (nonrelativistic and undistorted) that the usual rates for quantization can be replaced by another requirement, in which mention of "whole numbers" no longer occurs. Instead the integers occur in the same natural…” quote by Erwin Schrodinger
Download Open image
“In this communication I wish first to show in the simplest case of the hydrogen atom (nonrelativistic and undistorted) that the usual rates for quantization can be replaced by another requirement, in which mention of "whole numbers" no longer occurs. Instead the integers occur in the same natural way as the integers specifying the number of nodes in a vibrating string. The new conception can be generalized, and I believe it touches the deepest meaning of the quantum rules.”

Erwin Schrodinger

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Proposes replacing quantization by whole numbers with a node‑based rule akin to vibrating strings, linking quantum numbers to physical patterns.

In simple terms: Quantum numbers can be derived from natural node patterns.

Key Takeaway

Explore alternative quantization methods.

Themes

quantum mechanics mathematics physics philosophy of science

Mood

analytical inquisitive

Type

scientific philosophical

When to use this quote

  • atomic modeling
  • educational curricula
  • theoretical research

Key Concepts

quantization node theory wave mechanics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How would this change teaching quantum theory?
  • What experimental evidence supports node‑based quantization?
A Different Perspective

May be mathematically complex for practical use.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Erwin Schrodinger

Explore all 79 Erwin Schrodinger quotes

More Atoms quotes

Browse all 852 Atoms quotes