Help with Math in Quantum Mechanics: Variational Method

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  • Thread starter Thread starter mody mody
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematical aspects of the variational method in quantum mechanics, specifically focusing on deriving a particular equation related to the method as presented in a referenced document. Participants seek clarification on the steps involved in this derivation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests help with a specific equation from a photo related to the variational method in quantum mechanics.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on which equation is being referenced and questions the context in which the variational method was mentioned.
  • A participant specifies they are interested in the second equation that ends with the square root of alpha and refers to a document for context.
  • There is a mention of the Gamma function, suggesting a potential mathematical connection to the discussion.
  • One participant asks for more detail on the starting point of the derivation and inquires about the original poster's experience with quantum mechanics, particularly regarding hydrogen atom wave functions.
  • Another participant encourages the original poster to show their detailed steps in working out a specific expression, indicating that they may receive help in completing the derivation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion appears to have unresolved questions regarding the specific steps needed to derive the equation in question. Participants have differing levels of familiarity with quantum mechanics, which may affect their ability to assist.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying degrees of familiarity with quantum mechanics concepts, which may influence the clarity of communication and the ability to provide assistance. There is a reliance on external resources, such as textbooks and academic papers, for context.

mody mody
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Hello
i read a quantum mechanics part and found a part of mathematics that i am not a familiar with it so i need a help how to get the equation at the bottom of the attached photo (the mathematics of applying variational method )
 

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Hello mody2

The one numbered (2) ? Or the one ending in ##\sqrt\alpha## ?
Starting from where ?
What makes you use the term 'variational method' ? Any context ? Where was it mentioned before ?
 
mody mody said:
starting by just following the sequence given at the photo
I mean where, at what point, at what level, do I have to start ? Do you have any experience at all with a QM course, the hydrogen atom wave functions, the ##Y_{lm}## ? If they are not the 'usual spherical harmonics' to you, I suggest you take a QM textbook and see how far you can come.

Where, exactly, do you get stuck when you work out this <H> ? Show your steps in detail and someone will help you put the last pieces of the puzzle together. Starting from 1+1=2 is really too tedious.
 

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