Error in book? (derivation of quantum well)

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion addresses an error in a specific physics book regarding the derivation of quantum wells. User divB points out a discrepancy in equation 3.139, where a minus sign appears instead of a plus sign, and questions the introduction of the imaginary unit "i" in equation 3.140. Another user, Martin, confirms the error and mentions that a later version of the book corrects these mistakes. The discussion highlights the importance of verifying mathematical derivations in academic texts.

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divB
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Hi,

http://books.google.at/books?id=40rRzNbuhpAC&pg=PA146

Can anybody explain me why in the third bracket in 3.139 is suddenly a minus instead of a plus? In 3.136 it is a Plus! And it is pure substitution as far as I understand...

And I checked everything before a few times: It should be correct!

And the next crazy stuff: From where does suddenly the "i" in the numerator (3.140) appear?

Thank you :-)
divB
 
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Hi divB!

You're absolutely right. There is a plus sign in the 3rd bracket and some confusion with factors of i in (3.140).

I found a later version of his book, where the errors are corrected. I attached a bmp of the relevant page.

Enjoy the book!

Best regards Martin
 

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  • CorrectAppl.png
    CorrectAppl.png
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GREAT! Thank you very much!

I can't believe it! It took me at least 5 hours ;-)

Thank you!
 

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