"Derivation" of the Schrödinger Equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of the Schrödinger Equation, specifically focusing on the reasoning behind the equation $$\nabla^2\psi=k^2\psi$$ and its implications in quantum mechanics. Participants are exploring the mathematical foundations and contextual applications of the equation, as well as seeking clarification on its derivation from wave mechanics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the origin of the right side of the equation $$\nabla^2\psi=k^2\psi$$ and seeks guidance on what to review to understand it better.
  • Another participant suggests that understanding the context of the Schrödinger Wave equation is crucial and requests additional information about the surrounding text.
  • A participant provides a sequence of equations, asserting that the reasoning presented in their textbook shows that the Schrödinger Equation is related to the wave function discussed earlier, but does not clarify the specific application of the wave equation.
  • There is a repeated emphasis on the spatial part of the wave equation and its relationship to classical mechanics, with a request for comparisons to classical plane waves.
  • One participant asks for a specific textbook reference to better understand the context of the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the specific application of the Schrödinger Equation or the clarity of the derivation process. Multiple viewpoints and requests for clarification remain present throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the assumptions made in the derivation, the dependence on specific definitions of terms, and the lack of clarity on the mathematical steps involved in transitioning from one equation to another.

BearY
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When reading a textbook I came across some reasoning about Schrödinger Equation.
It started with the wave function $$\nabla^2\psi=k^2\psi$$
I am a bit lost at this point. Where does the right side of the equation come from? What should I review to fix that part of my knowledge?
 
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Try to find out this equation is for Schroedinger Wave equation for what? If you also give us what is written prior to this and beyond this we may be able to help you better.
 
Let'sthink said:
Try to find out this equation is for Schroedinger Wave equation for what? If you also give us what is written prior to this and beyond this we may be able to help you better.
The reasoning says this is the spatial part of the wave equation, which to my understanding, is $$\nabla^2\psi$$.
After this, we have $$k=\frac{2\pi mv}{h}$$
and $$mv^2 = 2(E−V)$$
and thus $$\nabla^2\psi = \frac{8\pi^2m}{h^2}(E-V)\psi$$
and rearrange to get the $$E_k + V = E$$

To my understanding, this reasoning just to show that Schrödinger Equation is indeed a wave function that was talked about earlier in the book.
 
BearY said:
The reasoning says this is the spatial part of the wave equation, which to my understanding, is $$\nabla^2\psi$$.
After this, we have $$k=\frac{2\pi mv}{h}$$
and $$mv^2 = 2(E−V)$$
and thus $$\nabla^2\psi = \frac{8\pi^2m}{h^2}(E-V)\psi$$
and rearrange to get the $$E_k + V = E$$

To my understanding, this reasoning just to show that Schrödinger Equation is indeed a wave function that was talked about earlier in the book.
Read in between the lines and try to answer my question this equation is wave equation for what?
Also make a comparison with the differential equation for a classical plane wave.
 
BearY said:
When reading a textbook

What textbook? Please give a specific reference.
 

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