Probability of Electron at x=1.0nm In 0.010nm-Wide Region

In summary, the conversation discusses the wave function for an electron confined to x>=0nm, and the probability of finding the electron in a 0.010nm-wide region at x=1.0nm. The probability can be calculated using the integral of the wave function, assuming it is normalized. However, the given wave function is not normalized, so the value of b must be determined first.
  • #1
6Stang7
212
0
Ok, so the wave function for an electron that is confined to x>=0nm is:

w(x)=0 for x<0nm
w(X)=be^(-x/6.4nm) for x>=0nm

what is the probability of finding the electron in a 0.010nm-wide region at x=1.0nm?


I have no clue how to even start on this. This is no coverd in my physics book, so I have been trying to find something on the internet, but have come up dry. Anyone have anything that would help to explain this, along with inifinite square wells and realating the ground energy state to the width of the well?
 
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  • #2
probability of finding a particle between x1 and x2:

[tex]\int_{x_1}^{x_2}P(x)dx=\int_{x_1}^{x_2} | \psi (x) | ^2dx[/tex]

with psi being the wave function.
 
  • #3
kreil said:
probability of finding a particle between x1 and x2:

[tex]\int_{x_1}^{x_2}P(x)dx=\int_{x_1}^{x_2} | \psi (x) | ^2dx[/tex]

with psi being the wave function.

Under the assumption that the wavefunction is normalized (integral over all space=1). Yours isn't. Yet.
 
  • #4
In other words, first determine b so that
[tex]b\int_0^\infty e^{-x/6.4}dx= 1[/tex]

Then find
[tex]b\int_{0.995}^{1.005} e^{-x/6.4}dx[/tex]
 

1. What does the probability of an electron at x=1.0nm in a 0.010nm-wide region mean?

The probability of an electron at x=1.0nm in a 0.010nm-wide region refers to the likelihood or chance that an electron will be found at a specific location (x=1.0nm) within a very narrow region (0.010nm wide) of space.

2. How is the probability of an electron at x=1.0nm calculated?

The probability of an electron at x=1.0nm is calculated using quantum mechanics principles, specifically the Schrödinger equation. This equation takes into account various factors such as the electron's energy, potential energy, and the shape of the region in which it is located.

3. Why is the probability of an electron at x=1.0nm important?

The probability of an electron at x=1.0nm is important because it provides valuable information about the behavior and properties of electrons in a specific region of space. This information is crucial in understanding the movement and interactions of electrons in various materials and systems.

4. What factors can affect the probability of an electron at x=1.0nm?

Several factors can affect the probability of an electron at x=1.0nm, including the electron's energy level, the shape and size of the region, and the presence of any external forces or fields. These factors can alter the electron's movement and behavior, thereby changing its probability of being located at a specific point.

5. How is the probability of an electron at x=1.0nm experimentally determined?

The probability of an electron at x=1.0nm can be experimentally determined using various techniques such as electron microscopy, spectroscopy, and tunneling microscopy. These methods involve measuring the position and energy of electrons in the region of interest and using mathematical models to calculate the probability at a specific location.

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