Average value in a one-dimensional well

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The discussion focuses on calculating the average value of x² in a one-dimensional quantum well, expressed as (x²)_{av}=L²(1/3 - 1/2n²π²). Participants highlight the need to evaluate the integral x²_{av} using the wave function ψ_n(x)=√(2/L)sin(nπx/L). There is a suggestion to use integration by parts for solving the integral, with a reminder to apply double angle identities to simplify sin² terms. The conversation emphasizes the importance of manual calculation for gaining experience, despite the availability of integral tables. Overall, the thread revolves around strategies for accurately computing the average value in quantum mechanics.
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Homework Statement


Show that the average value of x2 in the one-dimensional well is

(x^2)_{av}=L^2(\frac{1}{3}-\frac{1}{2n^2 \pi^2})


Homework Equations



wave fuction in 1-dim well:
\psi_n(x)=\sqrt{\frac{2}{L}}sin(\frac{n \pi x}{L})

x^2_{av}=\int_{0}^{L}|\psi(x)|^2 x^2 dx


The Attempt at a Solution



Im having trouble evaluating the integral:

x^2_{av}=\frac{2}{L} \int_0^Lsin^2(\frac{n \pi x}{L})x^2dx

i think this needs to be integrated by parts, but could it be in a table somewhere?
 
Last edited:
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There should be a table, when I took Quantum mechanics, usually the professor gave a table with solution of some integral(like this one for example), even in exams he did that.
But try to do it manually, more experience..
 
yah, simplest way to solve it is integration by parts.
dont forget to use double angles to get rid of
sin^2
 

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