Newbie Schrodinger equation question

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the Schrödinger equation, specifically focusing on the notation used in the equation, including the meaning of the Greek letter associated with psi and time. The scope includes conceptual clarification and foundational knowledge in calculus and differential equations.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the notation in the Schrödinger equation, particularly the Greek letter associated with psi and time.
  • Another participant explains that the Greek letter denotes partial derivatives, indicating that it represents the derivative of psi with respect to one variable while holding others constant.
  • A third participant suggests that the original poster may need to revisit foundational calculus concepts before tackling the Schrödinger equation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no consensus on the level of understanding required to engage with the Schrödinger equation, as participants express differing views on foundational knowledge and the appropriateness of the original poster's current understanding.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the assumption that the original poster has a sufficient background in calculus and differential equations, which may not be the case.

SteveM19
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I discovered physics at a later age and am trying to learn more about Schrödinger's equation, here it is in one dimension -- got to crawl before you walk, I guess -- http://scienceworld.wolfram.com/physics/SchroedingerEquation.html == my question is the variable that is multiplied by i x h bar -- I do not know what the meaning is of the greek letter attached to psi in the numerator and t in the denominator. Thank you for your time.
 
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Those specify partial derivatives. It's the derivative of Psi with respect to 1 particular variable (holding other variables constant).
 
Roger -- thks much --
 
If you don't know that, then you probably need to start over with a calculus textbook, work your way up to differential equations, and then try looking at the Schrödinger equation.
 

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