Potential barrier. Schroedinger equation.

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the Schrödinger equation in the context of a potential barrier, specifically examining the case where the potential height \( V_0 \) equals the energy \( E \). Participants explore the behavior of wave functions in different regions of the potential barrier.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to derive the wave functions for different regions of the potential barrier and seeks confirmation on the correctness of their approach. Questions are raised regarding the nature of bound states and their energy characteristics.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide feedback on the original poster's mathematical setup, indicating that it appears correct. There is an ongoing exploration of the concept of bound states, with participants discussing the implications of energy being negative versus positive in relation to wave function behavior.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the boundary conditions and the implications of energy values on the nature of the wave functions, particularly in the context of bound versus unbound states.

LagrangeEuler
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Homework Statement


Schroedinger equation for potential barrier.
What if ##V_0=E##
First region. Particles are free.
##\psi_1(x)=Ae^{ikx}+Be^{-ikx}##
In third region
##\psi_3(x)=Ce^{ikx}##

Homework Equations


##\frac{d^2\psi}{dx^2}+\frac{2m}{\hbar^2}(V_0-E)\psi=0##
where ##V_0## is height of barrier.
For region II

The Attempt at a Solution


In second region
##\frac{d^2 \psi}{dx^2}=0##
from that
##\frac{d\psi}{dx}=C_1##
##\psi(x)=C_1x+C_2##
Boundary condition
##A+B=C_2##
##C_1a+C_2=Ce^{ika}##
##ikA-ikB=C_1##
##C_1=ikCe^{ika}##
System 4x4
Is this correct?
Could you tell me in this case do I have bond state?
 
Last edited:
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Yes, it seems correct. Bond states have negative energy.
 
Bound states have negative energy? Can you explain me this. In case of this problem.
 
The oscillatory solutions of regions 1 and 3 happen because energy is positive and the wave is free to propagate to infinity. (unbounded particle). If the energy is negative you get a exponentially decaying wave function and the wave does not propagate to infinity (bounded particle).
 

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