Find Energy Levels for Harmonic Oscillator w/ Stretch-Only Spring

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the energy levels of a harmonic oscillator with a spring that can only stretch, resulting in a potential energy function V(x) = 1/2*m*w^2*x^2, where V(x) approaches infinity for x < 0. Participants clarify that this modification transforms the potential into a cliff-like structure on the left side of the graph, effectively truncating the standard parabolic shape. This setup alters the boundary conditions and energy quantization of the system, leading to unique solutions compared to a standard harmonic oscillator.

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  • Understanding of harmonic oscillators and potential energy functions
  • Familiarity with classical mechanics concepts
  • Knowledge of boundary conditions in quantum mechanics
  • Basic grasp of energy quantization principles
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Students of physics, particularly those studying quantum mechanics and classical mechanics, as well as educators looking for examples of modified potential energy systems.

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for harmonic oscillator, V(x) = 1/2*m*w^2*x^2. here, the spring can be stretch or compress.

however, is if the spring can only stretch such that V(x) is infinity for x<0, then find energy level for this setup.

I don't understand the part about spring only being able to stretch. what does that turn equation into? i dunno, any hints?
 
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Just truncate the left half of V(x) and instead of half a parabola there, you have a straight cliff. This sounds like a homework question by the way, and those belong in the homework forums.
 

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