QM: 1D infinite square well

In summary, the conversation discusses a particle of mass m in a one-dimensional infinite square well with boundaries at x = -a and x = a. The first part asks for the energy eigenfunctions and corresponding eigenvalues, using results from the book. The second part introduces the parity operator Π and asks if it commutes with the Hamiltonian. The third part asks if the energy eigenfunctions are also eigenfunctions of Π and if so, what their eigenvalues are. The fourth part gives the initial wavefunction of the particle and asks to normalize it by calculating the appropriate value of C. The fifth part asks for the expectation value of the particle's energy. The sixth part asks if the initial wavefunction is also an eigenfunction of
  • #1
meow123
1
0

Homework Statement



A particle of mass m is in a one-dimensional infinite square well that extends from x = –a to x = a.



a) Find the energy eigenfunctions ψn (x) and corresponding eigenvalues En of this particle. (Hint: you may use the results of the book for an infinite square well between x=0 and x=a, appropriately modified!)

b) The parity operator Π is defined as: Π ψ(x) = ψ (–x) for any function ψ(x). Does Π commute with the Hamiltonian H of this particle?

c) Are the energy eigenfunctions ψn (x) also eigenfunctions of Π and, if yes, with what eigenvalue each?



The wavefunction of the particle at some initial time is ψ = C sin |πx/a| , with C a real positive constant. ( ψ = 0 for |x| > a )



d) Normailize the wavefunction by calculating the appropriate value of C.

e) Calculate the expectation value of the energy of this particle.

f) Is the above wavefunction an eigenfunction of Π and, if yes, with what eigenvalue?

g) What is the probability that a measurement of the energy of this particle will yield the value E2 ? (Hint: the result of (c) and (f) may help you.)

Can anyone help me with this? Thanks.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Hi.

I would like to help you, but please give it a try first, then we can look at it together.
 

What is the "QM: 1D infinite square well" model?

The "QM: 1D infinite square well" model is a simplified representation of a quantum mechanical system where a particle is confined within an infinitely deep potential well with impenetrable walls. This model is used to study the behavior of particles in one-dimensional systems.

What are the assumptions made in the "QM: 1D infinite square well" model?

The "QM: 1D infinite square well" model assumes that the potential well is infinitely deep, meaning that the particle cannot escape from the well. It also assumes that the walls of the well are impenetrable, meaning that the particle cannot pass through them. Additionally, the model assumes that there are no external forces acting on the particle, and that the particle is confined to a one-dimensional space.

How does the energy of a particle in the "QM: 1D infinite square well" model vary?

In the "QM: 1D infinite square well" model, the energy of a particle is quantized, meaning that it can only take on certain discrete values. The lowest energy state, or ground state, has an energy of E1 = (π²ħ²)/(2mL²), where ħ is the reduced Planck's constant, m is the mass of the particle, and L is the length of the well. The energy increases with each successive state, with En = n²(π²ħ²)/(2mL²), where n is the quantum number representing the state.

What is the probability of finding a particle at a specific position in the "QM: 1D infinite square well" model?

In the "QM: 1D infinite square well" model, the probability of finding a particle at a specific position within the well is given by the square of the wave function Ψ(x) at that position. The wave function is a mathematical function that describes the behavior of the particle in the quantum system.

How does the "QM: 1D infinite square well" model relate to real-world systems?

The "QM: 1D infinite square well" model is a simplified representation of real-world systems, such as atoms and molecules, where particles are confined within potential wells. While it may not accurately describe these systems, it provides a useful framework for understanding the behavior of particles in quantum mechanical systems.

Similar threads

  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
14
Views
849
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
19
Views
432
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Advanced Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
Back
Top