Find Range of V0 for Particle in Potential

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the range of values for the potential depth V0 in a quantum mechanics problem involving a particle in a defined potential V(x). The potential is defined as V(x)=infinity for x<0, -V0 for 0a. The participant utilized the wave function solutions ψ(x)=Asin(kx) for 0a, with k and q defined in terms of the particle's mass m and energy E. The continuity conditions at x=a led to the equation q=-kctg(ka), which is crucial for finding the number of bound states based on the parameters a and m.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics, particularly bound states and potential wells.
  • Familiarity with wave functions and the Schrödinger equation.
  • Knowledge of mathematical functions such as sine, exponential, and cotangent.
  • Concept of continuity conditions in wave functions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the implications of the continuity conditions in quantum mechanics.
  • Study the relationship between potential depth V0 and the number of bound states.
  • Learn about the mathematical derivation of wave functions in potential wells.
  • Investigate the effects of varying mass m on the bound state solutions.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those studying quantum mechanics and potential wells, as well as educators looking for examples of bound state analysis in particle physics.

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Homework Statement


A particle is in the following potential:
V(x)=infinity for x<0; -V0 for 0<x<a; and 0 for x>a
Given that there's only one bound state I am asked to determine the range of values for V0 in terms of the width a and the particle's mass m.[/B]

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


For -V0<E<0 I chose the following general solution for the wave function:
ψ(x)=Asin(kx) 0<x<a; Bexp(-qx) x>0
where k=√(2m(E+V0)/ħ and q=√(2m|E|)/ħ
By demanding continuity at x=a for both wave functions and their derivatives I obtained the following solution:
q=-kctg(ka)
How may I proceed? I'd appreciate some guidance.
[/B]
 
Physics news on Phys.org
How do you get the number of solutions from your last equation?
The borders for "a" and "m" are exactly the limiting cases for 1 and 2 solutions.
 

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