Allowed momentum values for a plane wave

In summary, the wavefunction at t=0 has a single k value, resulting in one allowed momentum value of p=ħk with a 100% chance of measurement. However, due to the infinite uncertainty in position, it is not an eigenfunction of momentum. This also means that there is a 20% chance of measuring +p and an 80% chance of measuring -p.
  • #1
alec_grunn
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Hi all,
This is from a past exam paper: At t=0 the state of a particle is described by the wavefunction

Code:
 $$ \Psi (x,0) =A(iexp(ikx)+2exp(-ikx)) $$

This is between positive and negative infinity - not in a potential well.

What values of momentum are allowed, and with what probability in each case?

Relevant Equations:
## \hat p = -i \hbar \frac{\partial}{\partial x} ##

My attempted solution:
Since there's only one k value present I was thinking there is one momentum value: ##p = \hbar k## with 100% chance of measuring this. And the fact that the uncertainty in position is infinite means that its momentum is sharp. But if this is the case, then why isn't it an eigenfunction of momentum?

Please help,
Cheers
 
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  • #2
Momentum is a vector operator - the sign matters.
 
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  • #3
Ok so that means 20% chance of +p and 80% chance of -p?
 
  • #4
alec_grunn said:
Ok so that means 20% chance of +p and 80% chance of -p?
Yes.
 

Related to Allowed momentum values for a plane wave

1. What are allowed momentum values for a plane wave?

The allowed momentum values for a plane wave can range from any value, depending on the energy of the wave. In quantum mechanics, the momentum of a particle is related to its wavelength through the de Broglie relation: p = h/λ, where h is Planck's constant and λ is the wavelength. Therefore, the allowed momentum values for a plane wave are determined by the energy of the wave, which can vary.

2. How do the allowed momentum values for a plane wave relate to its energy?

As mentioned before, the allowed momentum values for a plane wave are related to its energy through the de Broglie relation: p = h/λ. This means that the momentum of a plane wave can only have certain values depending on its energy. Higher energy waves will have larger momentum values and vice versa.

3. Are there any restrictions on the allowed momentum values for a plane wave?

There are no restrictions on the allowed momentum values for a plane wave, as long as they follow the de Broglie relation. This means that any value of momentum is possible for a plane wave, as long as it is consistent with the energy of the wave.

4. Can the allowed momentum values for a plane wave change?

Yes, the allowed momentum values for a plane wave can change if the energy of the wave changes. As mentioned before, the momentum of a plane wave is directly related to its energy, so any change in energy will result in a change in momentum. This can happen, for example, if the wave interacts with another particle or field.

5. How do the allowed momentum values for a plane wave compare to those of a particle?

The allowed momentum values for a plane wave are different from those of a particle because they are not restricted to discrete values. In quantum mechanics, particles are described as having discrete momentum values, while waves can have continuous values of momentum. Therefore, the allowed momentum values for a plane wave are more versatile and can take on a wider range of values compared to a particle's momentum.

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