Potentials and de Broglie wavelength

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the concepts of energy, potential, and de Broglie wavelength in quantum mechanics, particularly in relation to a particle with a specified energy of 10 eV. Participants are exploring the implications of potential energy on kinetic energy and the existence of a de Broglie wavelength.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between energy and potential, questioning whether the energy of the particle can be considered as 10 eV and how potential affects kinetic energy. There is also exploration of the implications of negative kinetic energy on the existence of a de Broglie wavelength.

Discussion Status

Some participants seem to affirm the reasoning presented, particularly regarding the decaying exponential behavior in certain regions. However, questions remain about the specifics of the energy relationships and the nature of the particles involved.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of confusion regarding the use of values from a data sheet, indicating potential misinterpretation of constants and their relevance to the problem. The distinction between photons and electrons is also raised, suggesting a need for clarity on the type of particle being analyzed.

Brewer
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Homework Statement


work.jpg



Homework Equations


E=hc/λ?

and the Time Independent Schrödinger Equation.



The Attempt at a Solution



Now, would I be right in thinking for the first section that the energy for the E=hc/λ bit is just the energy of the particle given in the question (10eV).

Then for the other sections is the relevant energy just 10eV minus the potential?

As the last section will give a negative KE of the particle does that mean that it doesn't have a de Broglie wavelength? Its just a negatively decaying exponential (i.e. tending to 0)?


Does that sound like I'm on the right lines?
 
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Anyone have any hints about this one? The way that I described it above is the way that I attempted it, and after using the wrong values from my data sheet (first I used k(why I picked this I don't know - maybe I just can't read!) and then [tex]\hbar[/tex] before reading the sheet properly for the value of h!) I think I have values that give decent answers.
 
It sounds fine to me. Decaying exponential in the last region, yes. Is there still a question?
 
Brewer said:

Homework Statement


work.jpg



Homework Equations


E=hc/λ?
Are we talking about photons or electrons? What is the general de Broglie relation for any particle?
 

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