Quantum Chemistry - Particle in a box

In summary, the conversation discusses the final result of the Schrodinger equation and the offered n-values, as well as the suggestion to use latex for entering equations. Some references are provided for further information. The conversation also mentions using l'Hospital's rule to deduce a probability at high energies.
  • #1
Amblambert
1
1
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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  • #2
  • #3
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##).
 
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FAQ: Quantum Chemistry - Particle in a box

What is a "Particle in a box" in quantum chemistry?

A "Particle in a box" is a simplified model used in quantum chemistry to describe the behavior of a particle confined within a one-dimensional box. The particle is assumed to have zero potential energy outside of the box and infinite potential energy when it reaches the boundaries of the box. This model is used to understand the properties of particles in confined spaces, such as atoms in a molecule or electrons in an atom.

How does the energy of a particle in a box change with its size?

The energy of a particle in a box is directly proportional to the inverse of the square of the box's size. This means that as the size of the box decreases, the energy levels of the particle increase. Conversely, as the size of the box increases, the energy levels of the particle decrease. This relationship is known as the "quantization" of energy in a particle in a box.

What is the significance of the "quantization" of energy in a particle in a box?

The "quantization" of energy in a particle in a box is significant because it shows that the energy levels of a particle in a confined space are discrete, rather than continuous. This means that the particle can only have certain specific energy values, or "energy levels", rather than any energy value within a given range. This is a fundamental principle of quantum mechanics and is used to explain many phenomena in chemistry and physics.

How does the "particle in a box" model relate to real-life systems?

The "particle in a box" model is a simplified version of real-life systems where particles are confined, such as atoms in a molecule or electrons in an atom. While it does not accurately represent these systems in their entirety, it provides a useful framework for understanding the behavior of particles in confined spaces and can be used to make predictions about their properties and behavior.

What are some limitations of the "particle in a box" model?

The "particle in a box" model has some limitations, including the assumption of zero potential energy outside of the box and infinite potential energy at the boundaries of the box. It also only applies to one-dimensional systems and does not take into account the effects of interactions between particles. Additionally, it does not accurately represent the behavior of particles in more complex systems, such as molecules with multiple atoms. These limitations make it a simplified model and it should be used with caution when interpreting real-life systems.

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