This page summarizes the classic Stern-Gerlach experiment on "spin" and extends the treatment to a discussion of correlation experiments. As is often the case, I build up maximum complexity as I exami...This page summarizes the classic Stern-Gerlach experiment on "spin" and extends the treatment to a discussion of correlation experiments. As is often the case, I build up maximum complexity as I examine the experimental details, and then hide them in a 'box'. This time the box will turn out to be literal. Here we concentrate on electrons, which have only two spin-states. We also mention photons, which also have two spin-states.
The electron both orbits the nucleus and "spins" on its own axis. This results in a spin one-half and hence two possible spin orientations with respect to a given axis explains the observed Stern-Gerl...The electron both orbits the nucleus and "spins" on its own axis. This results in a spin one-half and hence two possible spin orientations with respect to a given axis explains the observed Stern-Gerlach results, and also, more importantly, helps us construct the periodic table.
