General question about wavefunctions

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of finding the probability of a particle's location over a specific interval of time, given a wavefunction ψ(x,t). There is a paradox in the calculation of this probability, as it can lead to values greater than 1. The conversation also mentions that observing the position at a specific time can cause the wavefunction to change, making it difficult to determine the particle's position accurately.
  • #1
phi1123
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Homework Statement


Is it possible given a wavefunction ψ(x,t) to find the probability that the particle is at a particular location over an interval of time?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Intuitively, given that the probability of finding the particle in a region a<x<b at a time t is ∫ab|ψ(x,t)|2dx, i would guess that the probability of finding the particle ti<t<tf at the point x would be ∫titf|ψ(x,t)|2dx. However, this leads to a bit of a paradox: this integral can leads to probabilities greater than 1, which would suggest that I am missing something pretty critical.
 
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  • #2
Hi.
If you observe the position at t=ti wave function changes or contracts so it is a mess.
If you do not observe, you cannot say anything about position at t = ti or about staying in point x.
Regards.
 

1. What is a wavefunction?

A wavefunction is a mathematical description of the quantum state of a physical system. It describes the probability of finding a particle in a certain position or with a certain momentum.

2. How do wavefunctions relate to quantum mechanics?

Wavefunctions are a central concept in quantum mechanics. They are used to calculate the probabilities of different outcomes in quantum systems and are essential in understanding the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level.

3. Are wavefunctions observable?

No, wavefunctions are not directly observable. They represent the probability of finding a particle in a certain state, but they do not have a physical manifestation themselves.

4. Can wavefunctions change over time?

Yes, wavefunctions can change over time according to the Schrödinger equation, which describes how quantum systems evolve over time. The evolution of a wavefunction is determined by external forces and interactions with other particles.

5. What is the uncertainty principle and how does it relate to wavefunctions?

The uncertainty principle states that it is impossible to know both the position and momentum of a particle with absolute certainty. This is related to wavefunctions because the more accurately we know the position of a particle, the less certain we are about its momentum, and vice versa. The wavefunction represents this uncertainty in the position and momentum of a particle.

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