How Do You Normalize a Quantum State in a Harmonic Oscillator?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on normalizing a quantum state in a harmonic oscillator, specifically for a system defined by the state |ψ(0)⟩ = c1|Y0⟩ + c2|Y1⟩, where |Y0⟩ and |Y1⟩ represent the ground and first excited states, respectively. The normalization condition is established as |c0|² + |c1|² = 1. Additionally, the mean energy is expressed as <ψ|H|ψ> = E0|c0|² + E1|c1|², with E0 = (1/2)ωħ and E1 = (3/2)ωħ. The discussion concludes that while c0 and c1 cannot be determined directly, their absolute values can be derived from the provided equations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, specifically harmonic oscillators.
  • Familiarity with quantum state notation and linear combinations.
  • Knowledge of normalization conditions in quantum mechanics.
  • Basic grasp of energy eigenvalues in quantum systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of energy eigenvalues for harmonic oscillators.
  • Learn about the implications of quantum state normalization in various systems.
  • Explore the concept of superposition in quantum mechanics.
  • Investigate the role of angular frequency ω in quantum harmonic oscillators.
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, particularly those focusing on harmonic oscillators and quantum state normalization. This discussion is beneficial for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of quantum states and energy calculations.

EEnerd
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Homework Statement


consider a harmonic oscillator of mass m and angular frequency ω, at time t=0 the state if this oscillator is given by
|ψ(0)>=c1|Y0> + c2|Y1> where |Y1> , |Y2> states are the ground state and the first state respectively

find the normalization condition for |ψ(0)> and the mean value for the energies <H> in terms of C0 and C1, (b)and if we assume <H>= hω calculate c0 and c1

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

ok i know that |c0|^2 +|c1|^2 =1

and <ψ|H|ψ>= E0|c0|^2 + E1|c1|^2 where E0=1/2 ωh and E1= 3/2 ωh

?!
 
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EE said:

Homework Statement


consider a harmonic oscillator of mass m and angular frequency ω, at time t=0 the state if this oscillator is given by
|ψ(0)>=c1|Y0> + c2|Y1> where |Y1> , |Y2> states are the ground state and the first state respectively

find the normalization condition for |ψ(0)> and the mean value for the energies <H> in terms of C0 and C1, (b)and if we assume <H>= hω calculate c0 and c1



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

ok i know that |c0|^2 +|c1|^2 =1

and <ψ|H|ψ>= E0|c0|^2 + E1|c1|^2 where E0=1/2 ωh and E1= 3/2 ωh

?!

Well, keep going. You've got two equations in the two unknowns |c0|^2 and |c1|^2. You won't be able to determine c0 and c1 but you can find their absolute values.
 

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