QM: Standard SHO Potential Example

In summary, the standard SHO potential, given by V=m\omega^2x^2/2, is commonly used in situations governed by Hooke's Law, where the force is given by f=-kx. The relationship between k and \omega is given by \omega=\sqrt{k/m}, which explains why the potential energy formula in the book includes m*\omega^2.
  • #1
ehrenfest
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Homework Statement


My QM book says that the standard SHO potential is [tex] m \omega^2 x^2/2 [/tex]. Can someone give me an example of a physical situation that is governed by this potential. It seems rather out of nowhere to me...


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Any situation that is governed by Hookes Law: f=-kx, will have a potential V=kx^2/2
 
  • #3
Yes but when is k = m \omega x? I guess \omega = g works, but
omega is usually an angle.
 
  • #4
You are probably thinking of the oscillator potential energy using the formula:

[tex]V=1/2kx^2[/tex]

Remember that Omega is the angular frequency of the oscillation. Also, remember that for an oscillator obeying Hooke's Law the angular frequency is:

[tex]\omega = \sqrt{k/m}[/tex]

If you solve this for k, you should see where the m*omega^2 is coming from in the book's expression for the potential energy.
 

1. What is the Standard SHO Potential Example in QM?

The Standard SHO Potential Example, also known as the Simple Harmonic Oscillator Potential, is a commonly used example in quantum mechanics to demonstrate the behavior of a particle in a harmonic potential well. It is characterized by a quadratic potential energy function and has a simple and intuitive mathematical solution.

2. How does the Standard SHO Potential Example relate to real-world systems?

The Standard SHO Potential Example is a simplified model that can be used to describe many physical systems in the real world, such as a mass attached to a spring or the motion of an electron in an atom. While it may not perfectly represent these systems, it provides a good approximation and helps to understand the underlying principles and behaviors.

3. What is the equation for the Standard SHO Potential?

The equation for the Standard SHO Potential is V(x) = 1/2kx^2, where V(x) represents the potential energy, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement of the particle from its equilibrium position.

4. How does the energy of a particle in the Standard SHO Potential change with increasing quantum number?

In the Standard SHO Potential, the energy levels of a particle are quantized, meaning they can only take on certain discrete values. As the quantum number increases, the energy levels also increase. This is because the potential energy function is parabolic, and the higher the quantum number, the greater the curvature of the potential well.

5. How does the uncertainty principle apply to the Standard SHO Potential?

The uncertainty principle, which states that it is impossible to know both the exact position and momentum of a particle simultaneously, applies to the Standard SHO Potential. As the particle oscillates in the potential well, its position and momentum are constantly changing, and it is impossible to determine both values with absolute precision at the same time.

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