Just to check Schrodinger equation with 2 electrons

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the Schrödinger equation for two electrons, specifically examining the wave function represented as x1² + x2². The user questions whether this wave function satisfies the differential equation for a two-electron system. It is concluded that solving this equation in one dimension does not yield a valid central potential, necessitating a three-dimensional approach. The user seeks resources on the two-body problem, acknowledging its complexity and the challenges in finding solutions.

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  • Understanding of the Schrödinger equation
  • Familiarity with wave functions and their properties
  • Knowledge of central potentials in quantum mechanics
  • Basic concepts of quantum mechanics in three dimensions
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  • Research the three-dimensional Schrödinger equation for multi-electron systems
  • Explore resources on the two-body problem in quantum mechanics
  • Study the mathematical techniques used to solve differential equations in quantum physics
  • Review literature on failed attempts to solve complex quantum systems
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Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, physicists studying multi-electron systems, and anyone interested in the complexities of the two-body problem in quantum theory.

jonjacson
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Hi folks,

I just want to check I understand correctly the Schrödinger equation for two electrons.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schrödinger_equation#Time-independent_equation

With control F you can find "two electrons atoms or ions" section.

Let's assume the wave function = x1 2+ x22 and let's test if it satisfies the differential equation. (Instead of position vector r y use only x in 1D and the Laplacian operator is just a derivative respect x):

E * (x12 + x22) = -h2 * (2/μ) + e2/4piε0 * (1/x2-x1 - Z ( 1/x1+1/x2)) * (x12 + x22)

In case this equation were true I would have found a solution, Is this correct?
 
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This is very odd.

In 1D, you do not get that type of a central potential. You have to solve this in 3D if you want to keep that potential.

Zz.
 
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ZapperZ said:
This is very odd.

In 1D, you do not get that type of a central potential. You have to solve this in 3D if you want to keep that potential.

Zz.
This demonstrates opening this thread was a good idea.

Do you know any book or thread were the 2 body problem is approached. Since I read it is not solvable I assume nobody is publishing failed attempts. I suppose mathematicians have tried very hard to solve this equation and maybe they don't know how to do it, but for sure they know a lot of ways not to solve it right?

Where could I learn about this?
 

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