Question

The quantum numbers $+\frac{1}{2}$ and $-\frac{1}{2}$ for the electron spin represents:

• A. rotation of the electron in clockwise and anticlockwise directions respectively
• B. rotation of the electron in anticlockwise and clockwise directions respectively
• C. magnetic moment of electron pointing up and down respectively
• D. two quantum mechanical spin states which have no classical analogues

Answer 1

The correct option is A rotation of the electron in clockwise and anticlockwise directions respectively

The quantum numbers $+\frac{1}{2}$ and $-\frac{1}{2}$ for the electron spin represents rotation of the electron in clockwise and anticlockwise directions respectively. The spin of electron is also represented by arrow. A vertical arrow pointing upwards $(\uparrow )$ represents clockwise spin while a vertical arrow pointing downwards $(\downarrow )$ represents anti clockwise spin.