One dimensional problems. More particles.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the behavior of multiple particles in a one-dimensional quantum system, particularly in the context of their probability distributions within an infinite potential well. Participants explore the implications of having many particles in the same quantum state and how this relates to classical probability distributions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether having 50 particles in the same quantum state implies that exactly 25 particles will be found in each half of the potential well, given a symmetric probability distribution.
  • Another participant suggests that while the average may be 25 on each side, it does not guarantee that exactly 25 will be found in each region.
  • A comparison is made to a classical scenario involving coin flips, where the outcome can vary, indicating that the quantum case may exhibit similar variability.
  • One participant proposes that it is possible to have a distribution where, for example, 60 particles are found in one region and 40 in another, drawing a parallel to the variability seen in coin toss outcomes.
  • There is mention of using the binomial distribution to account for the permutations of particle arrangements in the quantum context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the expected distribution of particles must strictly adhere to the average derived from the probability distribution, indicating that multiple competing views remain on this topic.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the dependence on probabilistic interpretations and the assumptions underlying quantum mechanics versus classical analogies, without resolving the implications of these interpretations.

LagrangeEuler
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If I have one dimensional problem with many particles that are all in same ##|\psi\rangle## state is it equal to one dimensional problem of one particle in state ##|\psi\rangle##.
If I have for example 50 particles in some state ##\psi(x)## in infinite potential well and that state is symmetric around ##\frac{a}{2}## such that ##\int^{\frac{a}{2}}_0|\psi(x)|^2dx=\frac{1}{2}##. Is in that case true statement that ##25## particles are in the region ##0<x<\frac{a}{2}## and 25 are in the region ##\frac{a}{2}<x<a##?
 
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I would say not. The average may be 25 on each side though.
 
LagrangeEuler said:
If I have one dimensional problem with many particles that are all in same ##|\psi\rangle## state is it equal to one dimensional problem of one particle in state ##|\psi\rangle##.
If I have for example 50 particles in some state ##\psi(x)## in infinite potential well and that state is symmetric around ##\frac{a}{2}## such that ##\int^{\frac{a}{2}}_0|\psi(x)|^2dx=\frac{1}{2}##. Is in that case true statement that ##25## particles are in the region ##0<x<\frac{a}{2}## and 25 are in the region ##\frac{a}{2}<x<a##?
Think about the classical case. 50 particles, each independently with probability 1/2 to be on the left, probability 1/2 to be on the right. How many do you expect to find on each side? Hint: can you say "binomial distribution"? :wink:

The quantum case is no different.
 
My question is if I have coin, probability to get head is ##\frac{1}{2}##. If I throw the coin 100 times I could get for example 60 times head. Then in this case is it possible that ##60## particles be in the region ##0<x<\frac{a}{2}## and 40 in the region ##\frac{a}{2}<x<a##?
 
You need to count all the permutations which are the same, hence use the binomial distribution.
 
LagrangeEuler said:
My question is if I have coin, probability to get head is ##\frac{1}{2}##. If I throw the coin 100 times I could get for example 60 times head. Then in this case is it possible that ##60## particles be in the region ##0<x<\frac{a}{2}## and 40 in the region ##\frac{a}{2}<x<a##?

Yes, this is certainly possible.
 

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