Can Normalizing a Wave Function be Simplified Using Trig Identities?

In summary, the given particle state can be rewritten in the form of a linear combination of two trigonometric functions. The coefficients c and d can be determined using a trig identity, or by calculating the integral using the normalization factor B. It is recommended to have a strong background in calculus when studying Quantum Mechanics.
  • #1
SoggyBottoms
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At t = 0 a particle is in the (normalized) state:

[tex]\Psi(x, 0) = B \sin(\frac{\pi}{2a}x)\cos(\frac{7\pi}{2a}x)[/tex]

With [itex]B = \sqrt{\frac{2}{a}}[/itex]. Show that this can be rewritten in the form [itex] \Psi(x, 0) = c \psi_3(x) + d \psi_4(x)[/itex]

We can rewrite this to:

[tex]\Psi(x, 0) = \frac{B}{2}\left[ c \sin(\frac{4 \pi}{a}x) - d\sin(\frac{3\pi}{a}x)\right][/tex]

The answer sheet gives [itex]c = -d = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}}[/itex]. I assume you can find this by calculating [itex]A^2 \int \left[ c \sin(\frac{4 \pi}{a}x) - d\sin(\frac{3\pi}{a}x)\right]^2 dx[/itex]. I attempted to do it this way, but it becomes a really long calculation and halfway through I just lose track of everything. Is there an easier way to find c and d?
 
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  • #2
The difference between the two expressions is just a trig identity that you should be able to work out with no unknown coefficients. Therefore, if you can verify that B is the correct normalization factor for the first version, c and d are just determined by the trig identity.

However, if you are going to be studying QM, you should really learn how to do integrals like the one that gave you trouble. That is fairly simple compared to integrals you will come across later. QM is not a forgiving subject if you don't have a good calculus background.
 

What is a wave function and why is it important?

A wave function is a mathematical function that describes the behavior and properties of a quantum system. It is important because it allows scientists to make predictions about the behavior and interactions of particles on a microscopic level.

What does it mean to normalize a wave function?

Normalizing a wave function means to adjust the mathematical function so that it satisfies certain mathematical properties, such as having a total probability of 1. This is important because it ensures that the wave function accurately describes the probability of finding a particle in a certain state.

How do you normalize a wave function?

To normalize a wave function, you must first square the function and then integrate it over all possible values. The resulting value is then used to divide the original function, resulting in a normalized wave function.

What is the significance of a normalized wave function having a total probability of 1?

The total probability of 1 means that there is a 100% chance of finding the particle in one of the possible states. This is important because it ensures that the wave function accurately represents the probabilities of finding a particle in any given state.

Can a wave function be normalized to a value other than 1?

No, a wave function must be normalized to a value of 1 to accurately represent the probabilities of finding a particle in various states. If the wave function is normalized to a value other than 1, it would no longer accurately represent the probabilities and would not be a valid wave function.

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