Probability inside finite square well

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the probability of a particle being in the first third of a finite square well when in the ground state. The wave function is defined as \(\Psi(x) = A \sin\left(\frac{n \pi}{L} x\right)\) with normalization constant \(A = \sqrt{\frac{2}{L}}\). Participants emphasize the necessity of squaring the wave function \(\Psi^2\) and integrating from 0 to \(\frac{L}{3}\) to find the desired probability. It is noted that the wave function provided initially was for an infinite square well, highlighting the importance of using the correct wave function for accurate calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles, specifically wave functions.
  • Familiarity with the concept of probability density in quantum systems.
  • Knowledge of integration techniques for continuous functions.
  • Basic understanding of finite square well potential in quantum mechanics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of wave functions in finite square wells.
  • Learn about normalization of wave functions in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore the differences between infinite and finite square wells.
  • Practice calculating probabilities using various wave functions and integration limits.
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, physicists working with quantum systems, and educators teaching wave function properties and probability calculations in quantum physics.

kraigandrews
Messages
105
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



What is the probability, that the particle is in the first third of the well, when it is in the ground state?


Homework Equations



[itex]\Psi[/itex](x)=Asin((n*pi)/L)

A=(2/L)1/2

The Attempt at a Solution



so probablility is related to the wave function by [itex]\Psi[/itex]2

so i would think it would just be square the wave function and integrate from 0 to 1/3
 
Physics news on Phys.org
That seems right to me.
 
The upper limit should be L/3. Make sure you have the correct wave function. The wave function you have is for the infinite square well (and is missing an x), but the title of the thread mentions the finite square well.
 

Similar threads

Replies
28
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K