Dirac Equation - Analytic Solution?

In summary, the quantum harmonic oscillator has an analytic solution in the Schrodinger Equation, but the original Dirac Equation for a free electron does not have an analytic solution for the harmonic oscillation unless the potential energy is zero. In this case, the general solution is a plane wave multiplied by a constant spinor.
  • #1
LarryS
Gold Member
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The quantum harmonic oscillator is an analytic solution of the Schrodinger Equation. Does the original Dirac Equation for a free electron also have an analytic solution? Of course a "solution" of the Dirac Equation would consist of 4 functions.

Thanks in advance.
 
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  • #2
If there were such a solution you'd definitely would find it in Wiki entry.
 
  • #3
Google

"Dirac equation" hydrogen
 
  • #4
The harmonic oscillation is not modeled in the context of Dirac's equation, unless one leaves particle dynamics aside and does quantum field theory.
 
  • #6
referframe said:
The quantum harmonic oscillator is an analytic solution of the Schrodinger Equation.
Yes, if the potential energy is chosen to be ##\frac12 k x^2##.

referframe said:
Does the original Dirac Equation for a free electron also have an analytic solution? Of course a "solution" of the Dirac Equation would consist of 4 functions.
Now you've switched to a "free" electron, which means that the potential energy is zero. In this case, the general solution is a plane wave times a constant spinor; see fzero's link for details.
 

Related to Dirac Equation - Analytic Solution?

1. What is the Dirac equation and why is it important?

The Dirac equation is a mathematical equation that describes the behavior of fermions, which are subatomic particles that make up matter. It is important because it provides a theoretical framework for understanding the properties of these particles and their interactions.

2. What does it mean for a solution to be "analytic"?

An analytic solution refers to a solution that can be expressed in terms of known functions, such as polynomials, trigonometric functions, or exponential functions. In the context of the Dirac equation, an analytic solution is one that can be written in terms of these functions, rather than numerical approximations or other methods.

3. Is there a closed-form analytic solution for the Dirac equation?

No, there is currently no known closed-form analytic solution for the Dirac equation. However, there are several known approximate solutions and numerical methods that can be used to solve it.

4. What are some applications of the Dirac equation?

The Dirac equation has various applications in physics, including quantum mechanics, particle physics, and relativity. It is used to study the behavior of subatomic particles, such as electrons, and has also been applied in the development of quantum field theories.

5. Are there any limitations to the Dirac equation and its solutions?

Like any scientific theory or equation, the Dirac equation has its limitations. It is a mathematical model that is based on certain assumptions and simplifications, and therefore may not accurately describe all phenomena in the real world. Additionally, as mentioned before, there is currently no closed-form analytic solution for the Dirac equation, so solutions must be approximated or obtained through numerical methods.

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