General solution to the Time-independent Schrödinger equation?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the search for a general solution to the time-independent Schrödinger equation (TISE) expressed in terms of the potential function V(r). Participants explore the feasibility of such a formulation for any type of V(r), considering both closed and non-closed form solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about a general solution to the TISE in terms of V(r) for any potential function.
  • Another participant expresses difficulty in finding a general solution and seeks insights from more knowledgeable experts.
  • Some participants suggest that the variety of approaches for different potential functions indicates a low probability of finding a usable general solution.
  • There is a mention that a non-closed form solution could also be valuable.
  • One participant proposes that if a wavefunction ##\psi## satisfies the TISE, its properties could be derived, suggesting that the TISE typically yields families of discrete solutions dependent on V(r) and quantum numbers.
  • Several participants acknowledge agreement on the idea that the TISE produces families of solutions rather than a singular general solution.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a singular general solution to the TISE in terms of V(r) is unlikely, with multiple competing views on the nature of solutions produced by the TISE remaining unresolved.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the limitations of the potential functions or the specific conditions under which different solutions may apply.

greswd
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Has anyone formulated a general solution to the time-independent Schrödinger equation in terms of the potential function V(r), and if so, what is it?

For any type of V(r).

So, instead of a differential equation, a direct relationship between the wavefunction and the potential.
 
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BvU said:
@BvU
Yes, I tried that first, but I couldn't find anything for, as mentioned, a general solution in terms of V(r).

And by general solution for V(r) I mean any type of V(r).

So I'm hoping some well-read physics experts here might know of it.
 
From the variety of approaches for different kinds of potential functions I estimate a zero probability for a (usable) general solution.
Would be something like a free lunch :cool:

greswd said:
some well-read physics experts
The more I think about it, the less I feel qualified :H
 
BvU said:
From the variety of approaches for different kinds of potential functions I estimate a zero probability for a (usable) general solution.
Would be something like a free lunch :cool:The more I think about it, the less I feel qualified :H
A non-closed form solution would be really good too, hopefully there's one
 
From what I've seen it's the other way around: suppose we have a ##\psi## that satisfies the TISE, what are its specific properties
 
BvU said:
From what I've seen it's the other way around: suppose we have a ##\psi## that satisfies the TISE, what are its specific properties
I believe the TISE generally produces families of discrete solutions, so a general solution would be in terms of both V(r) and parameters like quantum numbers, with the number of quantum numbers depending on the shape of V(r).
 
we say the same thing
 
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BvU said:
we say the same thing
nice
 

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