How to Calculate Momentum Probability in an Infinite Well?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the momentum probability of a particle in an infinite potential well, specifically in the ground state defined between 0 and a. The wavefunction is correctly identified as sqrt(2/a)*sin(pi*x), and the probability is expressed as P(p) = ||^2. A key correction is provided for the expectation value of momentum, which is P(p) = = ∫0a ψ* p ψ dx, emphasizing the need for proper boundary conditions at x=0 and x=a.

PREREQUISITES
  • Quantum mechanics fundamentals
  • Understanding of wavefunctions and boundary conditions
  • Fourier transformation techniques
  • Knowledge of momentum operators in quantum mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the application of Fourier transforms in quantum mechanics
  • Learn about expectation values and operators in quantum systems
  • Explore the implications of boundary conditions on wavefunctions
  • Investigate the properties of infinite potential wells
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in quantum mechanics, physicists working with wavefunctions, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of particle behavior in potential wells.

greisen
Messages
75
Reaction score
0
Hey all,

I am computing the probability that a particle in an infinite well has the momentum P in the ground state(0,a). So I start by calculating the wavefunction for the particle sqrt(2/a)*sin(pi*x). Than the probability can be calculated as
P(p) = |<p|psi>|^2. How to find <p| Fourier transformation ??

Any help appreciated

Thanks in advance
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Your expression for the expectation value of the momentum isn't quite correct. Assuming that the boundaries of the well are at x=0 and x=a:

P(p) = < \psi | p | \psi > = \int_0^a \psi^* p \psi dx

Your expression for the wave function is a bit off as well. Recall that the wave function must be zero at the walls of the well.

(Sorry about the formatting, my LaTeX was throwing errors and it's too late for me to try and fix it :wink: )
 
Last edited:

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
16
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
2K