Finding \Psi(x,t) From Schrodinger Equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the time-dependent wave function \(\Psi(x,t)\) from a given initial wave function \(\psi(x,0)\) using the Schrödinger equation. Participants explore methods applicable to both time-independent and time-dependent Hamiltonians, as well as normalization of the wave function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest applying the propagator \(e^{-\frac{i\hat{H}t}{\hbar}}\) to the wave function for time evolution, specifically for time-independent Hamiltonians.
  • One participant provides a specific initial wave function \(\psi(x,0)=A \sin(2\pi x) \cos(\pi x)\) and seeks to find \(\Psi(x,t)\) at a later time.
  • Another participant outlines a method involving finding the eigenstates of the system and expressing the wave function as a sum over these eigenstates, noting that the time evolution of each eigenstate involves multiplication by a phase factor.
  • Several participants express difficulty in normalizing the wave function and seek assistance in determining the normalization constant \(A\).

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the approach of using eigenstates for time evolution, but there is no consensus on the normalization process or the specific steps to take for the given wave function.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the normalization of the wave function and the specific conditions under which the proposed methods apply. The discussion does not clarify the assumptions needed for the application of the propagator or the eigenstate method.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students and practitioners interested in quantum mechanics, particularly those dealing with wave functions and the Schrödinger equation.

puneet.988
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hi
is there any way we can find [tex]\Psi[/tex](x,t) for a given [tex]\psi[/tex](x,0) ?
i got stuck with Schrödinger equation...
 
Last edited:
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puneet.988 said:
hi
is there any way we can find [tex]\Psi[/tex](x,t) for a given [tex]\psi[/tex](x,0) ?
i got stuck with Schrödinger equation...

One way is to apply the propagator [tex]exp\left\{-\frac{i\hat{H}t}{\hbar}\right\}[/tex] to the wavefunction. This works for a time-independent Hamiltonian.

Then [tex]\Psi\left(x,t\right)=e^{-\frac{i\hat{H}t}{\hbar}}\psi(x,0)[/tex]

There are more complicated versions that work for time-dependent Hamiltonians.
 
actually I've got this wave function [tex]\psi[/tex](x,0)=A sin 2[tex]\Pi[/tex]x cos [tex]\Pi[/tex]x

this wave function is for a one dimensional box of unit length...A is normalization constant

we need to find [tex]\Psi[/tex](x,t) at a later time t...

how should i go for it?
i tried to normalize it but got stuck...
 
1/ Find the eigenstates of the system [itex](\psi_1(x), \psi_2(x),\ldots)[/tex]<br /> 2/ Write your wavefunction as a sum over these eigenstates ([itex]\Psi(x,0) = c_1\psi_1 + \ldots[/tex]. Note: it can very well be your wavefunction is identical to an eigenstate.<br /> 3/ The time evolution of one eigenstate is very simple: it is multiplication with a phase factors. So the time evolution of [itex]\psi_1(x)[/itex] is [itex]e^{iE_1t/\hbar} \psi_1(x)[/itex]<br /> 4/ Just replace each eigenstate by it's time-dependen version, [itex]\psi_1\rightarrow e^{iE_1t/\hbar} \psi_1(x)[/itex] and you're done![/itex][/itex]
 
hi
i want to normalize that wave function but could'nt. can someone help me over this.
i need to find out the value of A.
 
puneet.988 said:
hi
i want to normalize that wave function but could'nt. can someone help me over this.
i need to find out the value of A.

psi(x,0)=A sin 2x cos x
 

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