Is This Wave Function an Eigenfunction of Energy and Momentum Operators?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining whether the wave function \(\Psi (x,t)= \textrm{exp}(-i(kx+\omega t))\) is an eigenfunction of the energy and momentum operators in quantum mechanics. Participants are exploring the conditions for eigenfunctions and the implications of the operators involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of the energy eigenvalue using the energy operator and express uncertainty about deriving a numerical value for \(E\). There is also a mention of the momentum operator and its relation to the wave function.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with some participants providing insights into the calculations and clarifying the nature of the constants involved. There is a recognition that the wave function can be treated as an eigenfunction, but questions remain about the interpretation of the eigenvalue.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that \(k\) and \(\omega\) are constants, which may influence the interpretation of the eigenvalue \(E\). There is a concern about whether additional constraints or laws apply that were not covered in the lecture notes.

Craptola
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I've been wrestling with this question for a while and can't seem to find anything in my notes that will help me.

Homework Statement


Determine whether the wave function \Psi (x,t)= \textrm{exp}(-i(kx+\omega t)) is an eigenfunction of the operators for total energy and x component of momentum, and if it is, calculate the eigenvalues.

Homework Equations


Condition for an eigenfunction:
\hat{E}\Psi =k\Psi
Where K is the eigenvalue
Energy operator:
\hat{E}=i\hbar\frac{\partial }{\partial t}

The Attempt at a Solution


Determining that psi is an eigenfunction is easy enough.
\hat{E}\Psi =i\hbar\frac{\partial }{\partial t}[\textrm{exp}(-i(kx+\omega t))]
=-i\hbar i\omega \Psi =\hbar\omega \Psi =\frac{h}{2\pi }2\pi f\Psi =hf\Psi =E\Psi

I can't figure out how to calculate the value of E from this information alone. I imagine the same method works for momentum when I figure out what it is.
 
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hmm? You have just calculated the value of E. Now, yeah it is pretty much a similar method to find out if it is also an eigenstate of momentum, once you remember what the operator looks like :)
 
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Hi Craptola! :smile:

hmmm …
Craptola said:
\hat{E}\Psi =i\hbar\frac{\partial }{\partial t}[\textrm{exp}(-i(kx+\omega t))]
=-i\hbar i\omega \Psi =\hbar\omega \Psi

stop there? :wink:
 
I assumed that the question wanted me to calculate an actual number for the eigenvalue, which is what confused me as it seems that E could be anything depending on other variables. This is all stuff we covered fairly recently so I wasn't sure if there was some kinda law that wasn't in the lecture notes which limited the possible values of E.
 
Craptola said:
… it seems that E could be anything depending on other variables.

Ah, but k and ω aren't variables, they're your given constants! :wink:
 
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