How to Calculate Quantum Tunneling Probability for an Electron?

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To calculate the quantum tunneling probability for an electron, one must solve the Schrödinger equation across three potential regions and apply boundary conditions. The wave function is expressed as Ψ(x) = ae^{\kappa*x} + be^{-\kappa*x}, with κ defined as κ = √(2m(V₀ - E)/ħ²) for E < V₀. The challenge lies in determining the coefficients a and b to compute the ratio |\Psi(d)/\Psi(0)|². For the specific case where V₀ - E = 1 eV and d = 1 Å, proper boundary conditions are essential for accurate calculations. Ultimately, solving these equations will yield the tunneling probability.
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Homework Statement


A particle with the energy E < V_{0} (V_{0} > 0) moves in the potential V(x) = 0, x<0 ; V(x)= V_{0}, 0<x<d and V(x)= 0, x>d. Measure the probability that the particle will tunnel through the barrier by calculating the absolute value of the ratio squared, |\Psi(d)/\Psi(0)|^{2} between the values of the wave function at x=d and x = 0

Calculate the probability for an electron, when V_{0}- E=1 eV and d = 1 Å.

Homework Equations


\Psi(x) = ae^{\kappa*x}+be^{-\kappa*x}, \kappa = \sqrt{2m( V_{0}-E)/\hbar^{2}} for E<V_{0}

The Attempt at a Solution



Firstly I get:

\kappa = \sqrt{2m(1)/\hbar^{2}} for E<V_{0}

However, the problem is with this wave function:

\Psi(x) = ae^{\kappa*x}+be^{-\kappa*x}

In order to calculate the ratio, |\Psi(d)/\Psi(0)|^{2}, I think I have to define a and b somehow, but I don't know where to start.

Thanks!
 
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You have to solve Shroedinger's equation in all three regions. Then you need to apply the appropriate boundary conditions.
 
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