Multiple electrons in an infinite square well

In summary, when 5 electrons are placed into an infinite square well, the lowest total energy is achieved when the electrons are arranged into the lowest energy states possible. This can be explained with the help of a diagram. The energy of the well is determined by the formula E = (π²ħ²)/2mL², with the first two electrons occupying the ground level and the remaining three electrons occupying the first excited level. The Pauli exclusion principle holds true, meaning that no two electrons can have the same quantum numbers.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


suppose you put 5 electrons into an infinite square well. (a) how do the electrons arrange themselves to achieve the lowest total energy? (explain with help of diagram) (b) give an expression for this energy in terms of electron mass, well width L and planks constant

The Attempt at a Solution


first off, does this well act similarly to atom in the way of electron configuration?
exclusion principle says no two electrons can have same quantum numbers, does this hold?

if so then at ground level the energy of the well is given by E[tex]\infty[/tex]=([tex]\pi[/tex]2[tex]\hbar[/tex]2)/2mL2

then E1 has 2 electrons and E2 has the last 3 electrons?

or are the first two electrons in ground level?

and then the arrangement would just be linear energy levels with the electrons?
 
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  • #2
Yes, the way to fill the well with the lowest possible energy is to fit as many electrons into the lowest energy states possible.

Of course the Pauli exclusion principle holds! It always holds.
 
  • #3
one more little thing... does ground level have the first two electrons? or are they in the E1 level and ground level has none?
 

1. What is an infinite square well?

An infinite square well is a model in quantum mechanics that represents a particle confined to a one-dimensional box with infinite potential barriers on either side.

2. How does the infinite square well model multiple electrons?

In the model, each electron is treated as a separate particle confined to its own one-dimensional box within the well. This allows for the consideration of multiple electrons and their interactions within the system.

3. What is the significance of multiple electrons in an infinite square well?

Studying multiple electrons in an infinite square well can provide insights into the behavior and interactions of particles in a confined space. It is also a simplified model that can be used to understand more complex quantum systems.

4. How are the energy levels of multiple electrons in an infinite square well calculated?

The energy levels for each electron in the well are determined by solving the Schrödinger equation, taking into account the potential energy of the well and the interactions between electrons.

5. Can the infinite square well model be applied to real-world systems?

While the infinite square well is a useful model for understanding quantum systems, it is a simplified representation and cannot fully capture the complexities of real-world systems. However, it can provide insights and predictions that can be applied to real-world scenarios.

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