How can I get the wave function

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenge of obtaining the wave function at time t=0 in quantum mechanics, particularly in the context of practical applications such as studying the motion of a car. Participants explore theoretical approaches and the implications of the wave function's nature.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how to experimentally obtain the wave function at time t=0 for a system, using the motion of a car as an example.
  • Some participants suggest solving the time independent Schrödinger equation as a method to find the wave function.
  • Another participant argues that the wave function at t=0 is fundamentally unknowable, raising concerns about the validity of problems that assume its availability.
  • A later reply expresses skepticism about the realism of problems that provide a wave function at t=0 and questions how to calculate the wave function for specific particles, like electrons, noting the need for a Fourier transform to construct a wave packet.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of obtaining the wave function at time t=0, with some suggesting theoretical methods while others assert its unknowability. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of these perspectives.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on definitions of the wave function and the unresolved nature of how to practically obtain it for specific systems.

eoghan
Messages
201
Reaction score
7
Hi! In every qm exercise I have the wave at time t=0 and I have to study its evolution in time. But experimentally, how can I get the wave function at time t=0? For example, if I am studying the motion of my car, how can I get its wave function?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
By solving the time independent Schrödinger equation.
 
kexue said:
By solving the time independent Schrödinger equation.

Please. The whole problem with quantum mechanics is that you can never get the wave function for t=0. It's fundamentally unknowable.
 
And so the problems like "given the wave function at time t=0..." aren't real?
How can I calculate the wave function associated with e.g. an electron?
Obviously I can't solve the Shrodinger equation, because to solve it I need the Fourier transform of the wave function in order to build the wave packet...
 

Similar threads

Undergrad Material Waves and Wave Functions
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Undergrad What do the wave functions of real particles look like?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Undergrad Phase and group velocity for the wave function
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
4K
Graduate How does QFT treat Young’s Double-Slit Experiment?
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
High School Can someone please explain to me the motion of an electron?
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Undergrad Schrödinger equation and classical wave equation
  • · Replies 39 ·
2
Replies
39
Views
4K
Undergrad Physical Meaning of the Imaginary Part of a Wave Function
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
Undergrad Is There A Study Showing The Observer Effect Ignoring Conscious Intent?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
6K
Undergrad Are electro-magnetic waves the same as the wave function?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
High School What proof do we have of wave functions?
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K