Calculating Energy Eigenvalues & Eigenfunctions for a 2D Particle

In summary, the reflection coefficient R for a particle is a function of the ratio ε= E/U. The sketch would look something like this:
  • #1
Franco
12
0
let's say..

there is a particle, with mass m, in a 2-dimensions x-y plane. in a region
0 < x < 3L ; 0 < y < 2L

how to calculate the energy eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of the particle?

thx :smile:

and.. 2nd question..

there is a particle of kinetic energy E is incident from the left on the potential barrier, height U, situated at the origin. The barrier is infinitely wide and E>U.

how to get an expression for the reflection coefficient R of the particle, as a function of the ratio ε= E/U
and how would the sketch look like?


:cry: i don't really know how to work them out...
 
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  • #2
Basically, you are talking about a "potential well" in which the energy is taken to be 0 inside the rectangle, infinite outside. You need to solve Schrodinger's equation with Energy 0 inside the rectangle. This turns out to be one of the few situations where it can be solved exactly. The solution consists of "standing waves" (just like waves on a rubber rectangular sheet fixed at the boundaries).
 
  • #3
i don't understand when it comes into 2 dimension :(
 
  • #4
can someone help me see if these look right?

π = pi

0 < x < 3L ; 0 < y < 2L
E1 + E2 = E
Eigenvalue :
ψ(x,y) = A sin [(n1 π x) / (3 L)] sin [(n2 π y) / (2 L)]
Eigenfunction :
E = E1 + E2 = [(n1^2 π^2 ħ^2) / (6 m L^2)] + [(n2^2 π^2 ħ^2) / (4 m L^2)]
E = [(π^2 ħ^2) / (2 m L^2)] * [(n1^2 / 3) + (n2^2 / 2)]

for the 3 lowest energy
E11 = [(π^2 ħ^2) / (2 m L^2)] * [(1^2 / 3) + (1^2 / 2)]
= (5 π^2 ħ^2) / (12 m L^2)
E12 = [(π^2 ħ^2) / (2 m L^2)] * [(1^2 / 3) + (2^2 / 2)]
= (7 π^2 ħ^2) / (6 m L^2)
E21 = [(π^2 ħ^2) / (2 m L^2)] * [(2^2 / 3) + (1^2 / 2)]
= (11 π^2 ħ^2) / (12 m L^2)
 
  • #5
Franco said:
and.. 2nd question..

there is a particle of kinetic energy E is incident from the left on the potential barrier, height U, situated at the origin. The barrier is infinitely wide and E>U.

how to get an expression for the reflection coefficient R of the particle, as a function of the ratio ε= E/U
and how would the sketch look like?


:cry: i don't really know how to work them out...

http://electron6.phys.utk.edu/qm1/modules/m2/step.htm

Nor do I, but here's a jumping point if it'll help. . . my brain doesn't work after 1:00am EST :biggrin:
 

1. How do you calculate the energy eigenvalues for a 2D particle?

The energy eigenvalues for a 2D particle can be calculated using the Schrödinger equation, which takes into account the particle's potential energy and kinetic energy. This equation can be solved using mathematical techniques like separation of variables and boundary conditions to find the allowed energy levels for the particle.

2. What are eigenfunctions in relation to energy eigenvalues?

Eigenfunctions are the corresponding wave functions for each energy eigenvalue. These functions describe the probability of finding the particle at a certain position in space. They are important in calculating the overall behavior of the particle, as they determine the shape and amplitude of the wave function.

3. Can the energy eigenvalues be negative?

In most cases, the energy eigenvalues for a 2D particle will be positive. However, in certain situations where the particle is confined by a potential well, some energy levels may be negative. This indicates that the particle has less energy than if it were in an unbound state.

4. How does the shape of the potential energy affect the energy eigenvalues?

The shape of the potential energy has a significant impact on the energy eigenvalues for a 2D particle. A deeper and narrower potential well will result in higher energy levels, while a wider and shallower well will result in lower energy levels. This is because the potential energy directly affects the kinetic energy of the particle, which is a key component in the Schrödinger equation.

5. Are energy eigenvalues and eigenfunctions the only factors that determine the behavior of a 2D particle?

No, there are other factors that can affect the behavior of a 2D particle, such as the mass and charge of the particle, as well as any external forces acting on it. Additionally, the uncertainty principle states that there will always be some level of uncertainty in the particle's position and momentum, which can also impact its behavior.

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