elektronipolarisaation

Elektronipolarisaatio refers to the deformation of the electron cloud surrounding an atom or molecule when subjected to an external electric field. In a neutral atom, the electron cloud is spherically symmetric, meaning the negative charge is evenly distributed around the positively charged nucleus. However, when an electric field is applied, it exerts a force on the charged particles. The positive nucleus is pushed in the direction of the electric field, while the negative electron cloud is pulled in the opposite direction. This displacement of charge causes the electron cloud to become distorted, shifting the center of negative charge away from the center of positive charge. This separation of charge within the atom or molecule creates an induced dipole moment.

The extent of elektronipolarisaatio depends on the strength of the electric field and the polarisability of the atom or molecule. Polarisability is a measure of how easily the electron cloud can be distorted. Atoms and molecules with more loosely bound electrons or larger electron clouds are generally more polarisable. This phenomenon is fundamental to understanding various optical and electrical properties of matter, including the refractive index of materials, dielectric constants, and the interaction of light with substances. It plays a role in phenomena like the attraction between a charged object and a neutral insulator.