Quantum Chemistry - Particle in a box

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of the Schrödinger equation to a particle in a box scenario in quantum chemistry. Participants emphasize the importance of using LaTeX for clarity in mathematical expressions and provide references for further reading. A key conclusion drawn is that applying l'Hospital's rule leads to the probability of finding the particle in the leftmost quarter of the box being 1/4 at high energies, specifically when m approaches infinity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Schrödinger equation in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with LaTeX for mathematical notation
  • Knowledge of l'Hospital's rule for limits
  • Basic principles of quantum mechanics, particularly the particle in a box model
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the Schrödinger equation for a particle in a box
  • Learn how to apply l'Hospital's rule in various mathematical contexts
  • Explore the implications of quantum mechanics on particle probability distributions
  • Practice using LaTeX for formatting complex equations
USEFUL FOR

Students and researchers in quantum chemistry, physicists studying quantum mechanics, and anyone interested in the mathematical foundations of quantum systems.

Amblambert
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Homework Statement
For the particle in a box, sketch ψn(x) and ψn2(x) for n = 5. Is ψn(x) an eigenfunction of the momentum operator?

If the state of the system is ψn, what is the probability of finding the particle in the
left quarter of the box between 0 and L/4? What happens when n is large?
Relevant Equations
ψn = sqrt(2/l) sin (npix/l)
Here is my attempt at a solution. The thing I am not sure about is the final result of the Shrodinger equation and the n-values that are offered?

Did I make a math mistake?

Thank you so much for reading through this!
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Apply l'Hospital's rule to deduce that
\begin{align*}
\lim_{m\rightarrow\infty}\frac{m\pi \pm 2}{4m\pi} &= \frac{1}{4}
\end{align*}
and conclude that the probability for finding the particle in the leftmost quarter of the box is ##1/4## at high energies (i.e. large ##m##).
 
Last edited:

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