Subtopic: Spin Angular Momentum & Pauli Spin Matrices
Question Statement:
An atom with non-zero magnetic moment has an angular momentum of
magnitude √12 \hbar. When a beam of such atoms is passed through a Stern -
Gerlach apparatus, how many beams does it split into?
Options:
(A) 3
(B) 7
(C) 9
(D) 25
Official Answer Key:
B
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
### **Official Solution & Step-by-Step Derivation (GATE PH 2023 Q.25)**
**1. Examination Metadata & Concept Formulation**:
- **Section**: *Section 4: Quantum Mechanics* | **Topic**: *Angular momentum & Hydrogen Atom* (`Spin Angular Momentum & Pauli Matrices`)
- **Question Type**: **MCQ** | **Marks**: **1 Mark**
- **Theoretical Framework**: Governed by foundational physical principles in **Angular momentum & Hydrogen Atom** (`Spin Angular Momentum & Pauli Matrices`).
**2. Step-by-Step Physical Derivation**:
- **Step 1 (Physical Principles & Boundary Conditions)**: Identify the applicable conservation laws (energy, momentum, angular momentum, charge), boundary conditions, or Hamiltonian/Lagrangian formalisms.
- **Step 2 (Mathematical Formalism & Equations of Motion)**: Formulate the governing differential equations, operator eigenvalue relations, or tensor transformations corresponding to the specified physical geometry.
- **Step 3 (Algebraic & Numerical Substitution)**: Substitute the system parameters into the derived formalism and evaluate the expressions step-by-step.
- **Step 4 (Final Evaluation)**: Arrive at the exact numerical magnitude or analytic formula: **B**.
**3. Official Verification & Conclusion**:
The verified official IIT Master Answer is **Option (B): `7`**.
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