Is the Given Interaction Term Correct for Coupled Harmonic Oscillators?

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SUMMARY

The forum discussion centers on the interaction term for coupled harmonic oscillators, specifically questioning the validity of the term \(\frac{1}{2}k(x_{1}^{2}-x_{2}^{2})^2\). The user initially doubts its appropriateness due to differing units from typical energy or potential terms. After consulting a professor, it was clarified that the correct interaction term should be \((x_1 - x_2)^2\). This indicates that the original term is incorrect and not suitable for inclusion in the Hamiltonian.

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Homework Statement



Find the energy levels and the wave functions of two harmonic oscillators of mass [tex]m_1[/tex]and [tex]m_2[/tex],
having identical frequencies [tex]\omega[/tex], and coupled by the interaction [tex]\frac{1}{2}k(x_{1}^{2}-x_{2}^{2})^2[/tex]

Homework Equations



Schrödinger equation.

The Attempt at a Solution



My first question is, if the interaction term as it is given makes sense, as it is not of the characteristic of energy/ potential (unit is different!). Therefore i cannot see how to put it into the hamiltonian.
If i just take the interaction terms as it is and add it to the sum of two harmonic oscillators, the term gets long and i can not decouple this hamiltonian

Please give me any hint on this problems. Thank you very much in advance!
 
Last edited:
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No one can help ? :)

Now I got that from Prof. that it was given wrong, it must bu (x1-x2)^2 in the interaction term, but if it is like above given interaction term, is it right? I mean is such an interaction term possible?
 

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