Finite square well potential energy

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the energy of a particle bound in a finite square well potential, defined by potential energy V0 for |x| > a and 0 for |x| < a. The wave function is expressed in three regions, with the continuity condition leading to the relationship A = B*exp(ka)/sqrt(2). The normalization condition is applied to derive an equation involving B and k, ultimately leading to the correct energy solution E = (9/32) π²ħ²/ma². The solution emphasizes the importance of the Schrödinger equation in determining energy levels.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, specifically wave functions and potential wells.
  • Familiarity with the Schrödinger equation and its applications in quantum systems.
  • Knowledge of normalization conditions for wave functions in quantum mechanics.
  • Basic skills in calculus for evaluating integrals related to wave functions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of energy levels in finite square wells using the Schrödinger equation.
  • Explore normalization techniques for quantum wave functions in various potential scenarios.
  • Learn about the implications of boundary conditions on wave functions in quantum mechanics.
  • Investigate the mathematical techniques for solving integrals involving exponential and trigonometric functions.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those focusing on quantum mechanics, wave functions, and potential energy problems. This discussion is beneficial for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of finite square well potentials and energy quantization.

Jalo
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Homework Statement



Hello.

Imagine a particle bound in a square well potential of potential energy
V0 if |x| > a
0 if |x| < a

The wave function of the particle is: (ignoring the time dependency)
-A*exp(kx) if x<-a
B*sin(3*pi*x/4a) if |x|<a
A*exp(-kx) if x>a

where k = sqrt(2mE)/ħ

Find the energy of the particle.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



First of all I determined the value of A through the condition of continuity at the boundaries:
A*exp(-k*a) = B*sin(3*pi*a/4a)
A*exp(-k*a) = B/sqrt(2)
A = B*exp(ka)/sqrt(2)

Rewriting the wave function:

-B*exp(k[x+a])/sqrt(2) if x<-a
B*sin(3*pi*x/4a) if |x|<a
B*exp(-k[x-a])/sqrt(2) if x>a

After that I decided to use the normalization condition to find the value of k.

\intdx <ψ|ψ> = 1

Separating the integral into three, one for each region, I concluded that:

∫dx A2 exp(2kx) = B2/4k
∫dx A2 exp(-2kx) = B2/4k
∫dx A2 sin2(3*pi*x/4a) = B2(a+1/2a)

Therefore:
B2/2k + B2(a+1/2a) = 1
B2(1/2k + a + 1/2a) = 1

However this doesn't help me much... I don't know what I should do next, or if what I'm doing is getting me closer to the answer.. The correct answer is:

E = (9/32) π2ħ2/ma2

Thanks for taking the time to read my problem.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
To answer the question, you don't need to worry about the normalization.

Think about how E shows up in the Schrödinger equation.
 
TSny said:
To answer the question, you don't need to worry about the normalization.

Think about how E shows up in the Schrödinger equation.

Thank you very much! I completely forgot about that!

Cheers!
 

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