Modified Quantum Harmonic Oscillator

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the modified quantum harmonic oscillator defined by the Hamiltonian H=\frac{P^{2}}{2m}+V(x), where V(x)=\frac{1}{2}m\omega^{2}x^{2} for x≥0 and V(x)=∞ otherwise. The key conclusion is that only odd integers n are permitted for the eigenenergies, E=(n+1/2)\hbar\omega, due to the boundary condition that the wavefunction must be zero at x=0. This condition restricts the allowed eigenfunctions to those with odd parity, confirming the initial hypothesis presented by the forum participant.

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, particularly harmonic oscillators
  • Familiarity with Hamiltonian mechanics
  • Knowledge of eigenfunctions and eigenvalues in quantum systems
  • Concept of parity in quantum mechanics
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  • Study the implications of boundary conditions on quantum harmonic oscillators
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This discussion is beneficial for physics students, quantum mechanics researchers, and educators seeking to deepen their understanding of quantum harmonic oscillators and the role of boundary conditions in determining eigenstates.

Gabriel Maia
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This is more of a conceptual question and I have not had the knowledge to solve it.

We're given a modified quantum harmonic oscillator. Its hamiltonian is

H=[itex]\frac{P^{2}}{2m}[/itex]+V(x)

where V(x)=[itex]\frac{1}{2}[/itex]m[itex]\omega^{2}x^{2}[/itex] for x[itex]\geq[/itex]0 and V(x)=[itex]\infty[/itex] otherwise.

I'm asked to justify in terms of the parity of the quantum problem eigenfunctions why only odd integers n are allowed for the eigenenergies of the problem E=(n+1/2)[itex]\hbar\omega[/itex]

I have not a clue... well... actually my best guess was that the given potential impose the condition that the wavefunction is zero at x=0 and this is only the case for the odd ones. I'm confident about it but I could not find a problem like this anywhere to check my answer.


Thank you.
 
Last edited:
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That is exactly it well done.

attachment.php?attachmentid=62931&stc=1&d=1381812730.png
 

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Thank you for the validation :)
 

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