Infinitely large quantum number

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the root mean square fluctuation in position for an electron confined in an infinite square well at an infinitely large quantum number (n). The calculation involves using the formula (root-mean)² = - ², where and are derived from the wave function solutions of the Schrödinger equation. It is established that for this scenario, the potential V is zero, and the appropriate wave function corresponds to the infinite square well. This topic is commonly addressed in quantum mechanics textbooks, making it accessible for further exploration.

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  • Understanding of Schrödinger's equation
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics concepts, specifically infinite square wells
  • Knowledge of calculating expectation values in quantum systems
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Students and professionals in physics, particularly those specializing in quantum mechanics, as well as educators looking for illustrative examples of quantum confinement and fluctuation calculations.

terp.asessed
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Hi--could someone explain how can one calculate for the root mean square fluctation in position when an electron (confined in a box) is quantum-mechanical and happens to be in a state (an infinitely large quantum number n) and why?
I do know how to calculate root mean square fluctation in position with the given function and n, as in (root-mean)2 = <x2> - <x>2 but am not sure how to do this with huge n value. Do I just use Schrödinger equation, where V (potential) is equal to 0?
 
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You don't use Schrödinger's equation, you use a function that is a solution of Schrödinger's equation with the appropriate potential (which in this case is an infinite square well the width of the box). This is a common textbook exercise so googling for "infinite square well quantum" or the like will find you some worked examples.
 

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