Series expansion of a harmonic oscillator

In summary, a series expansion ψ=A0x0+A1x1+A2x2+... can be used to determine the three lowest-order wave functions for a harmonic oscillator with spring constant k and mass m. By substituting the function F=-kx for U in Schrodinger's Equation, the energies can be shown to be the expected values. This can be further explored by reading about the harmonic oscillator.
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Homework Statement



Use a series expansion ψ=A0x0+A1x1+A2x2+... to determine the three lowest-order wave functions for a harmonic oscillator with spring constant k and mass m, and show that the engergies are the expected values.

Homework Equations



Series expansion given above

Time independent Schrodinger's equation

The Attempt at a Solution



I am not familiar with series expansion. Asking others in the class, we got as far as what is in the picture, where we took the function for a harmonic oscillator F=-kx and substituted it for U in Schrodinger's Equation.

P0gq5.jpg
 
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1. What is a harmonic oscillator?

A harmonic oscillator is a system that exhibits periodic motion around an equilibrium point, where the restoring force is directly proportional to the displacement from the equilibrium point. Examples include a mass on a spring or a pendulum.

2. What is a series expansion?

A series expansion is a mathematical technique used to represent a function as an infinite sum of simpler functions. This allows for the approximation of complex functions and is especially useful for studying the behavior of systems like the harmonic oscillator.

3. How is a series expansion used in the study of a harmonic oscillator?

The series expansion of a harmonic oscillator allows us to approximate the solution to the differential equation that describes its motion. By truncating the series at a certain order, we can obtain increasingly accurate approximations of the motion of the oscillator.

4. What is the significance of the coefficients in a series expansion of a harmonic oscillator?

The coefficients in a series expansion of a harmonic oscillator represent the amplitude of each term in the expansion. They can tell us about the relative importance of each term and how the motion of the oscillator changes over time.

5. Can a series expansion accurately describe the motion of a real-world harmonic oscillator?

No, a series expansion is only an approximation and cannot accurately describe the motion of a real-world harmonic oscillator. This is because real systems are subject to external forces and friction, which cannot be accurately captured by a series expansion.

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