Particle in a well potential/energy continuity

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SUMMARY

In an infinite square well potential, energy and momentum are conserved at the boundary where the potential experiences an infinite discontinuity. The potential is defined as V=0 for -a≤x≤a and V=infinite elsewhere. The particle cannot penetrate the infinite potential barrier, resulting in complete reflection. This conclusion holds true unless classical mechanics with inelastic collisions is considered.

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Sheldon Cooper
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Hello again,
Am facing a difficulty, the question is that ,
Is energy and momentum conserved for a particle in an infinite square well, at the boundary i.e, at x=a, where the potential suffers an infinite discontinuity??
V=0 for -a<=x<=a
V=infinite else-where
Thanks in advance :smile:
 
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Yes it is. The particle can't penetrate an infinitely high potential barrier, so it completely reflects there. (provided this isn't classical mechanics with an inelastic collision!)
 
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Did I forget the :welcome: ?

welcome to PF ! :smile:
 

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