How Is Photon Energy Calculated When an Electron Moves to a Lower Energy State?

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SUMMARY

The calculation of photon energy emitted when an electron transitions from the n=4 state to the ground state in an infinite one-dimensional well of width 0.251 nm is based on the formula E = h²n²/(8mL²). The user correctly identifies that the wave function must equal zero at the walls and uses the time-independent Schrödinger equation to derive the energy levels. The energy of the emitted photon is determined by calculating the difference in energy between the two states, specifically E = h²(15)/(8mL²) for the transition in question.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, specifically the Schrödinger equation.
  • Familiarity with the concept of quantum states in a one-dimensional infinite potential well.
  • Knowledge of Planck's constant (h) and its application in energy calculations.
  • Basic proficiency in mathematical manipulation of physical equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of energy levels in quantum wells using the time-independent Schrödinger equation.
  • Learn about the implications of quantum state transitions and photon emission in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore the application of Planck's constant in various quantum energy calculations.
  • Investigate the effects of well width on energy levels and photon energy in quantum systems.
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, particularly those specializing in quantum mechanics, as well as educators looking to enhance their understanding of energy transitions in quantum systems.

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An electron is trapped in an infinite one-dimensional well of width 0.251nm. Initially the electron occupies the n=4 state. Suppose the electron jumps to the ground state with the accompanying emission of a photon. What is the energy of the photon?

(Time independent)

What I did was realize that [itex]\psi(x)[/itex] must equal zero at the walls, so I chose [itex]\sin(kL)[/itex] and set it to [itex]n\pi[/itex], then solved for k.

Putting this value of k into the energy for a free particle (Time-ind Schrödinger), I eventually come to the expression:
[tex] \frac{h^2 n^2}{8mL^2}[/tex]

To find the corresponding energy of the emitted photon I plugged in the appropriate values of n and solved for the difference.

Does that seem right?

Answer:
[tex] E=\frac{h^2 15}{8m L^2}[/tex]

Obviously plugging in appropriate values of m and L afterward.
 
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To find the corresponding energy of the emitted photon I plugged in the appropriate values of n and solved for the difference.

Does that seem right?
That is certainly the method.
If this is long answer you want to write it explicitly in the math though.
 
Yeah, I have it officially written out showing steps and whatnot. Just felt lazy with the LaTex so I shortened it. Thanks.
 

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