Form of a Plane Wave? - Solving the Schrodinger Equation

In summary, the Schrodinger equation is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics that describes the evolution of a particle's wave function over time. It is used to solve for the form of a plane wave by finding the values of the wave vector and energy that satisfy the equation. The wave vector represents the direction and magnitude of the wave's propagation. The form of a plane wave is directly related to the probability of finding a particle in a specific location, as the intensity of the wave corresponds to the probability of finding the particle at that location. While the Schrodinger equation and the form of a plane wave can be used to describe most quantum systems, more complex systems may require advanced mathematical methods and the equation is limited to non-relativistic systems
  • #1
pivoxa15
2,255
1

Homework Statement


The psi function for a free particle is e^(i(kx-wt))

But does it satisfy the SE?

Homework Equations


SE


The Attempt at a Solution


I get w=hk^2/(4(pi)m) when plugged into the SE

but does w really equal that?
 
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  • #2
E=hbar w = hbar^2 k^2 / 2m
 
  • #3
christianjb said:
w = hbar^2 k^2 / 2m
There's one hbar too many in there, no?
 

Related to Form of a Plane Wave? - Solving the Schrodinger Equation

1. What is the Schrodinger equation and what does it represent?

The Schrodinger equation is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics that describes how the wave function of a particle evolves over time. It represents the fundamental relationship between the observable properties of a physical system and the underlying wave function.

2. How is the Schrodinger equation used to solve for the form of a plane wave?

The Schrodinger equation can be solved for the form of a plane wave by substituting the plane wave solution into the equation and finding the values of the wave vector and energy that satisfy the equation. This results in a mathematical expression for the plane wave, which can then be used to describe the behavior of a particle in a quantum system.

3. What is the significance of the wave vector in a plane wave?

The wave vector in a plane wave represents the direction and magnitude of the wave’s propagation. It is a vector quantity that is perpendicular to the wave front and indicates the direction in which the wave is traveling.

4. How does the form of a plane wave relate to the probability of finding a particle in a specific location?

The form of a plane wave is directly related to the probability of finding a particle in a specific location. The square of the amplitude of the wave function is proportional to the probability density of finding the particle at a given point in space. This means that the intensity of the plane wave corresponds to the probability of finding the particle at a particular location.

5. Can the Schrodinger equation and the form of a plane wave be used to describe all quantum systems?

The Schrodinger equation and the form of a plane wave can be used to describe the behavior of particles in most quantum systems. However, for more complex systems, such as those with multiple particles or interactions, more advanced mathematical methods may be needed to accurately describe the system. Additionally, the Schrodinger equation is limited to non-relativistic systems and does not account for the effects of special relativity.

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