How does potential act as a boundary for electrons in infinite well

Thread starter Dammes
Start date Aug 21, 2012
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Act Boundary Electrons Infinite Infinite well Potential

In summary, an infinite well is a theoretical model used in quantum mechanics to describe the behavior of particles, such as electrons, confined within a certain space. The potential boundaries of the well act as constraints on the movement of the particles, causing them to behave differently than they would in an open space. The potential of the infinite well creates a boundary that restricts the movement of electrons, leading to a decrease in their energy levels and a change in their behavior. An electron cannot escape from an infinite well regardless of how high the potential is, as the potential acts as a barrier that prevents the electron from leaving the well. The size of the infinite well determines the energy levels that electrons can occupy, with a smaller size leading to a higher probability of

Aug 21, 2012

Dammes

Im wondering how potential can act as a boundary for electrons in a 1-D time independent infinite well?

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Aug 22, 2012

Simon Bridge

Science Advisor

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The electrons would need infinite kinetic energy to get out is how.

1. What is an infinite well and how does it relate to potential boundaries for electrons?

An infinite well is a theoretical model used in quantum mechanics to describe the behavior of particles, such as electrons, confined within a certain space. The potential boundaries of the well act as constraints on the movement of the particles, causing them to behave differently than they would in an open space.

2. How does the potential of the infinite well affect the behavior of electrons?

The potential of the infinite well creates a boundary that restricts the movement of electrons. As the potential increases, the well becomes deeper and the electrons are more confined, leading to a decrease in their energy levels and a change in their behavior.

3. Can an electron escape from an infinite well if the potential is high enough?

No, an electron cannot escape from an infinite well regardless of how high the potential is. This is because the potential acts as a barrier that prevents the electron from leaving the well.

4. How does the size of the infinite well affect the behavior of electrons?

The size of the infinite well determines the energy levels that electrons can occupy. As the size of the well decreases, the energy levels become more closely spaced, leading to a higher probability of finding an electron at a particular energy level.

5. What happens to the energy of an electron when it reaches the boundary of an infinite well?

When an electron reaches the boundary of an infinite well, its energy decreases due to the potential barrier. This causes the electron to undergo a change in its behavior and may result in it being confined to a specific energy level within the well.