Bound states for a Spherically Symmetric Schrodinger equation

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving the bound states of a particle in a spherically symmetric potential described by the Schrödinger equation. The potential energy field is defined as V(r) = -V0 for r < R and V(r) = 0 for r > R. The eigenfunctions are derived for two regions, yielding solutions of the form C sin(k0 r)/r for r < R and A e^(α r)/r for r > R. The condition for the existence of one bound state is established as (ħ²π²)/(8mR²) < V0 < (9ħ²π²)/(8mR²).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Schrödinger equation in spherical coordinates
  • Knowledge of potential wells and bound states
  • Familiarity with eigenfunctions and eigenvalues in quantum mechanics
  • Basic concepts of graphical solutions in physics
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the graphical methods for solving transcendental equations in quantum mechanics
  • Study the implications of varying the potential depth V0 on bound states
  • Learn about the mathematical derivation of spherical harmonics in quantum systems
  • Investigate the physical significance of the parameters ħ, m, and R in quantum mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, particularly those studying potential wells and bound states, as well as educators looking for illustrative examples of solving the Schrödinger equation in spherical coordinates.

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Homework Statement


A particle of mass m moves in three dimensions in a potential energy field
V(r) = -V0 r< R
0 if r> R

where r is the distance from the origin. Its eigenfunctions psi(r) are governed by

\frac{\hbar^2}{2m} \nabla^2 \psi + V(r) \psi = E \psi
ALL in spherical coords.

Consider a spherically symmertic eigenfunction with no angular dependence of the form

\psi(r) = \frac{u(r)}{r}

Solve for u(r) in the regions r< R and r > R and yb imposiing boundary conditions, find the eigenfunction of a bound state with energy E = \hbar^2 \alpha^2 / 2m

Show taht there is one bound state of this kind if the depth of the weel obeys
\frac{\hbar^2 \pi^2}{8mR^2} &lt; V_{0} &lt; \frac{9\hbar^2 \pi^2}{8 mR^2}

Homework Equations


Ok i found te solution of the wavefunction to be
C \sin (k_{0}r) /r if r < R
A e^{\alpha r}/ r if r > R
The solutions are such because the solutions are found a bound state that is E <= V0. Also the solutions are spherically symmetric.

where k_{0} = \sqrt{\frac{2m}{\hbar^2} (V_{0} + E)}

The Attempt at a Solution


Furthermore i found that
k_{0} \cot k_{0} R = -\alpha
k_{0}^2 + \alpha^2 = \frac{2m}{\hbar^2} V_{0}

How would i prove the condition for V0?? Would i do this graphically assuming different values for R?

Thanks for your help!
 
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