Are These Wavefunctions Orthonormal in Spherical Coordinates?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the orthonormality of wavefunctions in spherical coordinates, specifically using the integration of two wavefunctions represented as Y(psi) and Y*(psi star). The correct integration measure for spherical polar coordinates is highlighted, which includes the volume element r^2 sin(θ) dr dθ dφ. The participants confirm that the integration should be performed over the appropriate bounds, ensuring the functions are orthonormal across the specified domain.

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MontavonM
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Given 2 wavefunctions with respect to (r,theta,phi)...

To prove that the functions are orthonormal, you would let the first w.function = Y(psi) and the 2nd = Y* (psi star), then you would integrate --> SY*Y dr dtheta dphi (integral of psi* times psi) dr dtheta dphi.

Correct?
 
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yeah, over a whole period, or the appropriate bounds.
 
MontavonM said:
Given 2 wavefunctions with respect to (r,theta,phi)...

To prove that the functions are orthonormal, you would let the first w.function = Y(psi) and the 2nd = Y* (psi star), then you would integrate --> SY*Y dr dtheta dphi (integral of psi* times psi) dr dtheta dphi.

Correct?

That looks like the wrong measure for spherical polar coordinates.
I would have expected something like:
[tex] \int_0^{2\pi} d\phi \int_0^\pi \sin\theta \; d\theta \int_0^\infty \bar f g \, r^2 dr [/tex]
where f,g are functions of [itex]r,\theta,\phi[/itex].

See also:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volume_integral
 

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