How do I correctly evaluate <x^2> for a particle in a one-dimensional box?

w3390
Messages
341
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Consider a particle in an infinite one-dimensional box that has a length L and is centered at the origin. (Use h for Planck's constant, n, and L, as necessary.) Evaluate <x^2> for <x^2> at n=1.

Homework Equations



<x^2>= (2/L)[(L^3/24)-(L^3/4n^2*pi^2)cos(n*pi)]

The Attempt at a Solution



I used this formula and got the answer (L^2/12)+(L^2/(2*pi^2)). My assignment is telling me this is incorrect. I took the same approach for the second part of my homework asking for this when n=2, and I got (L^2/12)-(L^2/(8*pi^2)) which it says is correct. I cannot figure out why my first answer is not correct as well. Any help would be much appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Sorry. Just figured it out.
 
Thread 'Need help understanding this figure on energy levels'
This figure is from "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics" by Griffiths (3rd edition). It is available to download. It is from page 142. I am hoping the usual people on this site will give me a hand understanding what is going on in the figure. After the equation (4.50) it says "It is customary to introduce the principal quantum number, ##n##, which simply orders the allowed energies, starting with 1 for the ground state. (see the figure)" I still don't understand the figure :( Here is...
Thread 'Understanding how to "tack on" the time wiggle factor'
The last problem I posted on QM made it into advanced homework help, that is why I am putting it here. I am sorry for any hassle imposed on the moderators by myself. Part (a) is quite easy. We get $$\sigma_1 = 2\lambda, \mathbf{v}_1 = \begin{pmatrix} 0 \\ 0 \\ 1 \end{pmatrix} \sigma_2 = \lambda, \mathbf{v}_2 = \begin{pmatrix} 1/\sqrt{2} \\ 1/\sqrt{2} \\ 0 \end{pmatrix} \sigma_3 = -\lambda, \mathbf{v}_3 = \begin{pmatrix} 1/\sqrt{2} \\ -1/\sqrt{2} \\ 0 \end{pmatrix} $$ There are two ways...
Back
Top