1-D standing de Broglie wave

Just remember to use the correct formula for kinetic energy, K = p^2/2m. Also, make sure to include the values for n = 1 and n = 2 in your calculations for part b. Overall, your solution seems correct and well-explained.
  • #1
Kavorka
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0

Homework Statement


A free proton moves back and forth between rigid walls separated by a distance L = 0.01 nm.
a) If the proton is represented by a one-dimensional standing de Broglie wave with a node at each wall, show that the allowed values of the de Broglie wavelength are given by λ = 2L/n, where n is a positive integer.
b) Derive a general expression for the allowed kinetic energy of the proton and compute the values for n = 1 and 2.

Homework Equations


K = p2/2m
λ = h/p

The Attempt at a Solution



The first part seems simple, I could graphically derive that L must equal nλ/L if there are nodes at each end. What I want to make sure about is part b. Would I have to use K = p2/2m, use the mass of a proton, and plug in p = h/λ getting K = h2/2λ2m?
 
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  • #2
Kavorka said:
... L must equal nλ/L...
Just a little typo here.

Your work looks good.
 

1. What is a 1-D standing de Broglie wave?

A 1-D standing de Broglie wave is a type of wave that describes the behavior of a particle, such as an electron, in one dimension. It is based on the de Broglie hypothesis, which states that particles can exhibit wave-like properties.

2. How is a 1-D standing de Broglie wave different from a regular wave?

Unlike a regular wave, a 1-D standing de Broglie wave does not propagate or move through space. Instead, it remains stationary and oscillates in place. It is formed by the interference of two waves traveling in opposite directions.

3. What is the significance of the 1-D standing de Broglie wave?

The 1-D standing de Broglie wave is significant because it provides a mathematical description of the wave-like behavior of particles at the quantum level. It helps to explain phenomena such as diffraction and interference, and it is a key concept in understanding the wave-particle duality of matter.

4. How is the wavelength of a 1-D standing de Broglie wave determined?

The wavelength of a 1-D standing de Broglie wave is determined by the momentum of the particle it describes. According to de Broglie's equation, the wavelength (λ) is equal to Planck's constant (h) divided by the momentum (p) of the particle.

5. Can a 1-D standing de Broglie wave exist in higher dimensions?

Yes, a 1-D standing de Broglie wave is just one example of a standing wave in one dimension. Similar standing waves can also exist in two or three dimensions, and they are described by more complex mathematical equations. These standing waves can also be used to describe the behavior of particles in those dimensions.

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