Computing Heisenberg Uncertainty Value

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on computing the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle for a particle in a one-dimensional box of length L, with a potential energy of V(x) = 0 for 0 < x < L. The wave function at the ground state is given by ψ = sqrt(2/L)sin(πx/L). Participants are tasked with calculating ΔxΔp using the equations Δx = sqrt( - ^2) and Δp = sqrt( -

^2). The integral for is evaluated as 2/L * ∫(0 to L) x^2sin^2(πx/L)dx, leading to confusion regarding the evaluation of this integral and the inclusion of x in the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, specifically the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle.
  • Familiarity with wave functions and their properties in quantum systems.
  • Proficiency in calculus, particularly integration techniques and integration by parts.
  • Knowledge of trigonometric identities, such as sin²(u) = (1 - cos(2u))/2.
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn advanced integration techniques, specifically integration by parts and trigonometric substitutions.
  • Study the derivation of expected values in quantum mechanics, focusing on and .
  • Explore the implications of the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle in various quantum systems.
  • Review the properties of wave functions in quantum mechanics, including normalization and boundary conditions.
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Students and educators in quantum mechanics, physicists working on wave-particle duality, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of quantum theory.

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Homework Statement



Consider a particle in a one dimensional box of length L, whose potential energy is V(x)=0 for 0<x<L, and infinite otherwise.Given the wave function at ground state ψ=sqrt(2/L)sin (pi*x/L) Compute ΔxΔp where

Homework Equations



Δx=sqrt(<x^2>-<x>^2) and Δp=sqrt(<p^2>-<p>^2)

The Attempt at a Solution


I have set the expected value for as <x^2> equal to the integral from 0 to L ψ1(x)(x^2)ψ1(x)dx, as done by my prof. I then evaluated this to 2/L*the integral from 0 to L x^2sin^2(pi*x/L)dx. However I am stuck here, and my prof's solution goes straight to L^2(1/3-1/2pi^2). I am confused as to how he evaluated this integral and the role of (x^2) in the equation, if steps could be shown that would help immensely, also when calculating <x>, is x included in the integral, and how might it be evaluated if included with sin^2(pi*x/L). Thanks in advance.
 
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This is just integration not QM. But you first step is to use a trig identity sin(u)^2=(1-cos(2u))/2 to get rid of the power on the sin. Now multiply it out and start using integration by parts to deal with the x^2*cos part. You must have seen these things somewhere before.
 

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