How Does the Expectation Value Simplify to iCm/(pi*hbar)^1/2?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the simplification of an expectation value in quantum mechanics, specifically how it relates to the expression iCm/(pi*hbar)^(1/2). Participants are examining the steps involved in this simplification and the normalization of the wave function.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are analyzing the components of the expectation value and questioning the normalization factors involved. There is a focus on the potential discrepancy in the terms derived from the wave function and the differentiation process.

Discussion Status

Some participants have identified potential errors in the provided solution, particularly regarding the normalization factor. There is an ongoing examination of the terms involved, with suggestions made about possible corrections to the expression.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working with an attached image that illustrates the simplification process, which may contain critical information for understanding the discrepancies noted in the discussion.

Skullmonkee
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Just a quick question.
I finished an expectation value sum and noticed that the given solution had me stumped.
Ive attached a quick picture of the simplifying process which was given as the solution.

The only thing i don't understand is how to get the value iCm/(pi*hbar)^1/2.
I don't know how it simplifies to that as i get another answer. You'll have to have a look at the attached picture to see what i mean.
Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks.
 

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The first factor underlined in red comes from the two factors of
[tex]\left( \frac{\sqrt{C m}}{\pi \hbar} \right)^{1/4}[/tex]
on the top line, which are - IIRC - from the normalisation of your wave function.
The second factor in red comes from the [itex]-i\hbar[/itex] in front of the d/dx, combined with the [itex]2 \left( \sqrt{C m}/(2 \hbar) \right)[/itex] which comes down from the exponential when you apply the d/dx.

In the third red underlined term, I suspect that instead of C m there should be (C m)^(3/4). Because if you let k = sqrt(C m) you have a sqrt(k) multiplied by k, which gives k^(3/2), i.e. ((C m)^(1/2))^(3/2) = (C m)^(3/4).
 
Thanks CompuChip

That was my thought exactly. I could not see how there was not a (C m)^(3/4) term. At least i was on the ball there. I suppose that the solution which was given (the working i showed in the pic) is just wrong then?
 
The mistake is at the beginning. The 1/4 should be 1/2 for correct normalization.
 

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