Probability current inside the barrier of a finitie square potential well

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the probability current density \( J_x \) for a finite square potential well using the wave function \( \psi = C e^{kx} + D e^{-kx} \). The initial expression for \( J_x \) is given as \( J_x = \frac{i \hbar}{2m} \left[ \psi \frac{d}{dx} \overline{\psi} - \overline{\psi} \frac{d}{dx} \psi \right] \). After simplification, the final form of the probability current density is established as \( J_x = \frac{i \hbar}{m} [D \overline{D} - C \overline{C}] \), and the user seeks guidance on transitioning to the expression \( J_x = \frac{i k \hbar}{m} [c \overline{D} - \overline{C} D] \).

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  • Understanding of quantum mechanics, specifically wave functions and probability current density.
  • Familiarity with complex conjugates and their derivatives in the context of quantum states.
  • Knowledge of the Schrödinger equation and its applications in potential wells.
  • Proficiency in mathematical manipulation of exponential functions and complex numbers.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of probability current density in quantum mechanics using various potential well models.
  • Learn about the implications of complex wave functions in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore the role of boundary conditions in determining wave function coefficients \( C \) and \( D \).
  • Investigate the physical significance of probability current density in quantum tunneling and scattering problems.
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Students and professionals in quantum mechanics, physicists working with potential wells, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of quantum probability currents.

StephenD420
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if ψ=C*e^(kx) + D*e^(-kx)
show that the probability current density is
Jx=(i*k*hbar/m)[c*conj(D) - conj(C)*D]

since Jx= (i*hbar/2m)*[ψ * derivative of conj(ψ) - conj(ψ)*derivative of ψ]
ψ=C*e^(kx) + D*e^(-kx)
conj(ψ)= conj(C)*e^(-kx) + conj(D)*e^(kx)
ψ ' = C*k*e^(kx) - D*K*e^(-kx)
derivative of conj(ψ) = -conj(C)*k*e^(-kx) + conj(D) *k*e^(kx)

plugging in and simplifying I get

Jx = (i*hbar/2m)*[-C*conj(C)*k - k*conj(C)*D*e^(-2kx) + C*conj(D)*k*e^(2kx) + D*conj(D)*k -C*conj(C)*k -C*conj(D)*k*e^(2kx) + conj(C)*D*k*e^(-2kx) +D*conj(D)*k]

which simplifies to
Jx = (i*hbar/2m)*[-2*c*conj(C)*k + 2*D*conj(D)*k]
Jx = (i*hbar/m)*[D*conj(D) - C*conj(C)]

how do I get from here to
Jx=(i*k*hbar/m)[c*conj(D) - conj(C)*D]

Thanks so much for any help you guys can provide. I am really stuck as to what to do next.
Thanks.
Stephen
 
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Please help me with a nudge to finish this problem up.

Thank you for any help you guys can give me. I really appreciate it.
Stephen
 

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