Is the Ion Bound with this Energy Minimization?

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In summary, the conversation discussed minimizing energy with respect to a variable, resulting in a minimum value for the energy and determining whether or not the ion is bound.
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schlegelii
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Homework Statement
There exists some ion with a hamiltonian H = H0 + H1. The expectation value of H0 is ## \frac{\hbar ^2}{m} a^2 - 2 e^2 a## and the expectation value of H1 is ##\frac{5}{8} e^2 a##, where ##a## is some parameter with units of inverse length. Is the ion bound?
Relevant Equations
H = H0 + H1
expectation value of H0 is ## \frac{\hbar ^2}{m} a^2 - 2 e^2 a##
expectation value of H1 is ##\frac{5}{8} e^2 a##
From what we did in class, I think we need to minimize the energy with respect to a.

Like ##E = \frac{\hbar ^2}{m} a^2 - 2 e^2 a + \frac{5}{8} e^2 a = \frac{\hbar ^2}{m} a^2 - \frac{11}{8} e^2 a ##, then minimize it

Finding the minimum value: ## - (\frac{11}{16})^2 \frac{m e^4}{\hbar^2} ## when ## a = \frac{11 m}{16 \hbar ^2} e^2 ##

I am not sure how to tell if this means the ion is bound or not?? The energy is negative, but does that help??
 
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  • #2
Yes. According to variational principle $$E_g\leq <\text H>$$. Since tighetst upper bound you have founded is negative,it is bounded.
 

1. What is energy minimization in scientific research?

Energy minimization is a process in scientific research that involves finding the lowest energy state or configuration of a system. This can be done through various methods such as mathematical calculations or computer simulations.

2. Why is energy minimization important in studying ions?

Energy minimization is important in studying ions because it helps us understand the behavior and stability of particles in a system. By finding the lowest energy state, we can determine the most stable configuration of ions and how they interact with each other.

3. How does energy minimization affect the binding of ions?

Energy minimization plays a crucial role in determining the strength and stability of the binding between ions. By minimizing the energy, we can identify the most favorable bonding arrangement between ions and predict the strength of the bond.

4. Can energy minimization be applied to all types of ions?

Yes, energy minimization can be applied to all types of ions as it is a universal concept in studying the behavior of particles in a system. However, the specific methods and techniques used may vary depending on the properties and characteristics of the ions being studied.

5. How does the energy minimization process work in the study of ions?

The energy minimization process in studying ions typically involves using computational methods to calculate the potential energy of the system and finding the lowest energy state through optimization algorithms. This process allows us to determine the most stable configuration of ions and their interactions in a system.

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