Derive delta potential bound states from finite square well

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around deriving delta function bound state energies from the finite square well potential, focusing on the mathematical relationships and limits involved in the transition between these two potential forms.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss starting from wave functions and applying boundary conditions, while others suggest taking limits of the finite square well to approach a delta function potential. There are attempts to use normalization conditions and specific equations from Griffiths' textbook, but some participants express confusion about the correct approach and the implications of the limits.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing guidance on the correct method of taking limits, while others are still grappling with the implications of their attempts and the accuracy of their equations. There is no explicit consensus yet, but productive lines of inquiry are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework rules, which may limit the information they can share or the methods they can use. There are also corrections and clarifications being made regarding the equations referenced in the discussion.

shehry1
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Homework Statement


I have to show that the delta function bound state energies can be derived from the finite square well potential.


Homework Equations


The wave functions in the three regions for the finite square well. (See wikipedia)


The Attempt at a Solution


1. I start from the wave functions and apply the boundary conditions.
2. The coefficient to the Sin portion in the well would vanish and so(B=G=H in the wiki article).
3. Now I am stuck. I try to use the normalization condition but there is not just E (in the form of alpha or k but also the coefficient.
 
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Don't start from boundary conditions etc.: you already have the exact solutions of the finite square well. All you have to do is take limits in the right way so as to turn a finite square well into a delta-function potential. How would you do that?
 
borgwal said:
Don't start from boundary conditions etc.: you already have the exact solutions of the finite square well. All you have to do is take limits in the right way so as to turn a finite square well into a delta-function potential. How would you do that?

I tried that as well. For example I started with Griffiths 2.153:
E_n + V_o = (n^2 \pi^2 (h/2\pi)^2)/(2 m (2a^2)) but not only that V_o is approaching infinity but also that a is approaching 0. My attempt to make it so that the product of 'a' and V_o become a constant have been fruitless.
 
But that is the correct way, V_0 to infinity, a to zero, with the product of a and V_0 fixed...to what?
 
The energy you mention is wrong though, that is not the equation for the finite square well.
 
Now I need help :)
 
Since you have Griffiths' book, you can look up the whole solution for the finite square well, and take the right limits.
 
I need help. :)
given that
V(x) = 0 , lxl < a
= V_o , lxl >a

with V_o > 0

Calculate the energy levels and plot the eigen functions for the three bound states of this system when V_oa^2=(6h-bar)/m.

I duno what to do with this question, anybody who can tell me what should I do??
 
correction(sory)
given that
V(x) = 0 , lxl < a
= V_o , lxl >a

with V_o > 0

Calculate the energy levels and plot the eigen functions for the three bound states of this system when V_oa^2=(6h-bar^2)/m.

I duno what to do with this question, anybody who can tell me what should I do??
 

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