Charge Density in Quantum well Sub-bands.

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of charge density in the first subband (n=1) of a quantum well of length L. Two results were obtained from relevant equations, with one taking into account the wave function normalization and the other not. The expert summarizer suggests that the correct result would be the one that considers wave function normalization, as the charge density should be unique at a given point and cannot have two values.
  • #1
kpsr
11
0

Homework Statement


I am trying to calculate the charge density in the first subband (n=1) of the quantum well of length L as shown in the below figure.
1_zps37mzka9k.jpg

here
4_zpslffcxddg.jpg
is the electron wave function for the first sub-band and its value (from relevant equation 1) is given as
Ψ12(x) = 2/L*sin2(πx/L)

from Schrodinger equation total electron charge density is given by
n(x) = N1×Ψ12(x)
where N1 is the electron charge density in the first subband(n=1).

hence for charge density at x = L/2 the above equation becomes
n(L/2) = N1×Ψ12(L/2) = N1×2/L*sin2(π/2) --result 1

But from wave function normalization,that is the probability of finding electron between 0 and L is one(from relevant equation 2)
Ψ12(L/2) ≈1, then the total electron charge density at x=L/2 is n(L/2) = N1×1 --result 2

2. Homework Equations

wave-function for the electrons in the quantum well sub bands
2_zpshhozxa2d.jpg

wave function normalization(that is the probability of finding electron between 0 and L is one)
3_zpsvr5xo3eh.jpg


The Attempt at a Solution


When i made attempts for the solutions i got two results result 1 and result 2 as above.
Now my question is which is the correct result from these two..?
 
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  • #2
kpsr said:
here
proxy.php?image=http%3A%2F%2Fi1064.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fu373%2Frriazg125%2F4_zpslffcxddg.jpg
is the electron wave function for the first sub-band and its value (from relevant equation 1) is given as
Ψ12(x) = 2/L*sin2(πx/L)

from Schrodinger equation total electron charge density is given by
n(x) = N1×Ψ12(x)
where N1 is the electron charge density in the first subband(n=1).

I think the the wave function provide you the info about the probability of finding the charge(electron) in the one dimensional well in a certain state- so the density can be calculated by multiplying the charge with modulus square of the wave function between a point x and x+dx =that should be density at x- naturally as you show the nature of wave function its modulus square will be maximum at x= L/2 but the charge will not be always found at this point - as the total probability should be unity for a normalized wave function .
and at other points between 0 and L there exists finite probability density.
so you can not have two answers at a point-density should / will be unique.
 

1. What is charge density in quantum well sub-bands?

Charge density in quantum well sub-bands refers to the distribution of electric charge within a quantum well, which is a structure in a semiconductor material that confines electrons in two dimensions. This charge density is quantized into sub-bands, which represent different energy levels that the electrons can occupy within the well.

2. What factors influence the charge density in quantum well sub-bands?

The charge density in quantum well sub-bands is influenced by several factors, including the confinement potential of the well, the effective mass of the electrons, and the temperature of the system. Additionally, the presence of impurities or defects in the material can also affect the charge density.

3. How is charge density in quantum well sub-bands measured?

The charge density in quantum well sub-bands can be measured using various experimental techniques, such as capacitance-voltage measurements, photoluminescence spectroscopy, and tunneling spectroscopy. These methods allow researchers to study the energy levels and electronic properties of the sub-bands, which can provide insight into the charge density distribution.

4. What are the applications of studying charge density in quantum well sub-bands?

Studying charge density in quantum well sub-bands has various applications in the field of nanotechnology and semiconductor devices. It can help in the design and development of new electronic devices, such as quantum well lasers and transistors. Additionally, understanding the charge density distribution can also aid in the optimization of existing devices for improved performance.

5. How does the charge density in quantum well sub-bands affect the electronic properties of a material?

The charge density in quantum well sub-bands plays a crucial role in determining the electronic properties of a material. It affects the energy levels and confinement of electrons, which can impact the material's conductivity, optical properties, and other electronic characteristics. By manipulating the charge density, researchers can control the electronic properties of a material for specific applications.

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