Infinite Square Well (Quantum Mechanics)

AI Thread Summary
An electron trapped in an infinite potential well of 0.300 nm width is analyzed for its probability distribution in both the ground state and the 99th excited state. The probability of finding the electron within 0.100 nm of the left wall is calculated using the wave function derived from the time-independent Schrödinger equation. The eigenfunction is determined to be zero in regions of infinite potential, leading to a specific form of the wave function. The normalization constant A is needed to complete the wave function, which is essential for calculating probabilities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of consistency with the correspondence principle in quantum mechanics.
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Homework Statement



An electron is trapped in an infinitely deep potential well 0.300nm in width. (a) If the electron is in its ground state, what is the probability of finding it within 0.100nm of the left-hand wall? (b) Repeat (a) for an electron in the 99th excited state (n=100). (c) Are your answers consistent with the correspondence principal?

(This question comes from Serway / Moses / Moyer Modern Physics Third edition)

Homework Equations



P(x,t)dx = \Psi^*\Psi dx

\Psi (x,t) = \psi (x) \Phi (t)

\Phi (t) = e^{-i\omega t}, \omega = \frac{E}{\hbar}

The Attempt at a Solution



Since the potential does not depend on time, I can use the time independent Schrödinger equation to solve for psi (x).

psi(x) = Asin(kx) + Bcos(kx)

E_n = \frac{n^2 \pi^2 \hbar^2}{2m(.3*10^{-9})^2}

k=\frac{\sqrt{2mE}}{\hbar} = \frac{n\pi}{L} , L=.3nmIn the regions associated with infinite potential, the eigenfunction psi = 0. Since it must be continuous along all regions, psi(0) = 0 = B.

So,

\Psi(x,t) = Asin(kx)e^{-i\omega t}

And this should be the wave function, right?

Now I could use this to get information about the particle, but I need A first. How do I find A?
 
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normalization I suppose.
 
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