Energy needed to tunnel through a potential barrier

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the energy required for an electron to tunnel through a potential barrier of 10 eV height and 0.5 nm width, given a 1% tunneling probability. The transmission coefficient expression is crucial for solving this problem, which involves quantum mechanics principles. Participants express difficulty in formulating the equations necessary to derive the electron's energy, indicating a need for clarity on the mathematical representation of tunneling phenomena.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals
  • Understanding of potential barriers and tunneling
  • Familiarity with the transmission coefficient in quantum physics
  • Basic mathematical skills for solving exponential equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the transmission coefficient in quantum tunneling
  • Learn about the Schrödinger equation and its applications in potential barriers
  • Explore the concept of wave functions and their role in tunneling probabilities
  • Investigate numerical methods for solving complex quantum mechanical equations
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, physicists working with tunneling phenomena, and anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of particle behavior in potential barriers.

Tester_Boy
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Homework Statement



An electron approaches a potential barrier 10 eV high and 0.5 nm wide. If the electron has a
1% chance of tunnelling through, what must be its energy?


Homework Equations



don't know how to put equations in eg how do i get something like alpha and theta etc



The Attempt at a Solution



ended up with a massive equations with E's all over the place and imposible to solve :(
 
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Show how you tried to solve this problem. What is the transmission coefficient expression you are using?
 

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