How to Find Psi(x,t) in an Infinite Potential Well?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the time-dependent wave function, ψ(x,t), for a particle in a one-dimensional infinite potential well, given its initial normalized wave function at t=0. The context involves quantum mechanics and wave functions in potential wells.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of a series expansion involving coefficients C_n and the eigenfunctions φ_n. There is mention of integrating to find these coefficients, with some questioning whether there is a simpler method to obtain ψ(x,t).

Discussion Status

Some participants suggest that using standard integral tables or computational tools like Maple or Mathematica might simplify the process of finding the coefficients. There is no explicit consensus on a single approach, and the discussion remains open to various methods.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential complexity of the integrals involved and express concern about the time required for calculations. There is a reference to standard integrals for orthogonal sine and cosine functions, indicating that these may be relevant to the problem.

natugnaro
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Homework Statement


Hi,
Particle of mass m is found in one-dimensional infinite potential well with walls 0<=x<=a.
In t=0 the normalized wave function is:
[tex]\psi(x,t=0)=A[1+Cos(\frac{\pi x}{a})]Sin(\frac{2 \pi x}{a})[/tex]

find psi(x,t)

Homework Equations



?

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\psi(x,t)=\sum C_{n} e^{\frac{-iE_{n}t}{\hbar}}\phi_{n}(x)[/tex]

[tex]C_{n}=\int^{a}_{0}\phi_{n}(x)\psi(x)dx[/tex]

[tex]C_{n}=\int^{a}_{0}Sin(\frac{n \pi x}{a})A[1+Cos(\frac{\pi x}{a})]Sin(\frac{2 \pi x}{a})dx[/tex]


I could do the integral and find Cn coefficients, but it takes time.
Is there an easier way for findin psi(x,t) ?
 
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natugnaro said:

Homework Statement


Hi,
Particle of mass m is found in one-dimensional infinite potential well with walls 0<=x<=a.
In t=0 the normalized wave function is:
[tex]\psi(x,t=0)=A[1+Cos(\frac{\pi x}{a})]Sin(\frac{2 \pi x}{a})[/tex]

find psi(x,t)

Homework Equations



?

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\psi(x,t)=\sum C_{n} e^{\frac{-iE_{n}t}{\hbar}}\phi_{n}(x)[/tex]

[tex]C_{n}=\int^{a}_{0}\phi_{n}(x)\psi(x)dx[/tex]

[tex]C_{n}=\int^{a}_{0}Sin(\frac{n \pi x}{a})A[1+Cos(\frac{\pi x}{a})]Sin(\frac{2 \pi x}{a})dx[/tex]


I could do the integral and find Cn coefficients, but it takes time.
Is there an easier way for findin psi(x,t) ?

I don't think so, perhaps if you use tables of standard integrals or maple / mathematica.
 
Ok, thanks.
Just wanted to make shure I'm not missing something.
 
natugnaro said:
Ok, thanks.
Just wanted to make shure I'm not missing something.


there is standard integrals for ortonogal cos and sin integrals, if you want more hints.
 

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