Wave function

Definition

A wave function is a mathematical description of the quantum state of an isolated quantum system, representing the probability amplitude of a particle's position and other variables. In organic chemistry, it particularly helps in understanding the behavior of electrons within atomic orbitals.

Related terms

Atomic orbital: An atomic orbital is a mathematical function describing the location and wave-like behavior of an electron in an atom.

Quantum mechanics: Quantum mechanics is the branch of physics that deals with the mathematical description of the motion and interaction of subatomic particles, incorporating concepts like quantization of energy, wave-particle duality, and uncertainty principles.

Probability amplitude: Probability amplitude is a complex number used in quantum mechanics to describe the likelihood of finding a system in various states