A sudden change in the depth of delta function potential well

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of the continuum states being free particle states and the probability being determined by the wave functions Ψf and ΨB. The conversation also mentions the ability to calculate the probability of transfer to unbound states using the bound states |BS_A> and |BS_B>, regardless of the depth of the well.
  • #1
Mazhar12
1
0
Homework Statement
If a particle is initially in the bound state of a delta function potential well, having depth A, and at some point in time the depth suddenly changes to B. What is the probability that the particle will now be in the states of the continuum spectrum? both A and B are greater than zero.
Relevant Equations
equations are attached.
is it correct that the continuum states will be free particle states? and the probability will be |< Ψf | ΨB>|^2 . Where Ψf is the wave function for free particle and ΨB is the wave function for the bound state when the depth is B.
 

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  • #2
Because we are well aware of the old and new bound states ##|BS_A>## and ##|BS_B>##, we can calculate
[tex]1-|<BS_A|BS_B>|^2[/tex]
and I assume it as probability of transfer to unbound states.
I wonder it says relative magnitude of A and B, so deepening or shallowing of well, does not matter. Maybe I am wrong.
 
Last edited:

1. What is a delta function potential well?

A delta function potential well is a type of potential energy function used in quantum mechanics to model a localized potential energy barrier. It is represented by a delta function, which is a mathematical function that is zero everywhere except at a single point where it is infinite.

2. What causes a sudden change in the depth of a delta function potential well?

A sudden change in the depth of a delta function potential well can be caused by a change in the parameters of the potential energy function, such as the strength of the delta function or the width of the well. This can also be caused by the introduction of an external force or perturbation.

3. How does a sudden change in the depth of a delta function potential well affect the behavior of particles?

A sudden change in the depth of a delta function potential well can significantly alter the behavior of particles. It can cause particles to become trapped in the well, leading to changes in their energy levels and wave functions. It can also affect the probability of particles tunneling through the potential barrier.

4. Can a sudden change in the depth of a delta function potential well be observed in real-world systems?

Yes, a sudden change in the depth of a delta function potential well can be observed in various physical systems, such as semiconductor devices, atomic and molecular systems, and quantum dots. These systems can be manipulated to create sudden changes in potential well depths, allowing for the study of quantum phenomena.

5. What are the practical applications of studying sudden changes in the depth of delta function potential wells?

Studying sudden changes in the depth of delta function potential wells is crucial in understanding quantum mechanics and its applications. It can help in the development of new technologies, such as quantum computing and quantum sensors, as well as in understanding the behavior of particles in various physical systems.

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