How Does Adding a Constant Potential Affect Quantum Wave Functions?

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Adding a constant potential V_0 to the potential energy in quantum mechanics results in the wave function acquiring a time-dependent phase factor, exp(-iV_0t/ħ). This phase factor does not affect the probability density but alters the expectation values of dynamical variables. The discussion highlights the challenge of applying limited knowledge of the Schrödinger equation to this exercise. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding the implications of modifying potential energy. The original poster eventually resolves the exercise independently and expresses a willingness to seek further assistance in the future.
broegger
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I am having trouble with an exercise from Griffiths "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics". The exercise is this:

"Suppose you add a constant V_0 to the potential energy. In classical mechanics this doesn't change anything, but how about quantum mechanics? Show that the wave function picks up a time-dependent phase factor: exp(-iV_0t/\bar{h}). What effect does this have on the expectation value of a dynamical variable?"

This is an exercise from the first chapter - the Scrödinger equation has only been introduced briefly and he hasn't really talked about potential energy yet. How am I supposed to do this with the limited knowledge I have?
 
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What are your ideas??Have you seen the derivation of the exp(-\frac{1}{i\hbar}Et) for the stationary states??If so,u may make an analogy.

Daniel.
 
broegger said:
I am having trouble with an exercise from Griffiths "Introduction to Quantum Mechanics". The exercise is this:

"Suppose you add a constant V_0 to the potential energy. In classical mechanics this doesn't change anything, but how about quantum mechanics? Show that the wave function picks up a time-dependent phase factor: exp(-iV_0t/\bar{h}). What effect does this have on the expectation value of a dynamical variable?"

This is an exercise from the first chapter - the Scrödinger equation has only been introduced briefly and he hasn't really talked about potential energy yet. How am I supposed to do this with the limited knowledge I have?

Well, you have seen the Schrodinger equation which contains the potential V! What happens to the solotution of this equation if you add V_0[/tex] to V?
 
That's the question :)
 
We're waiting for your post in which to come up with ideas and maybe some calculations.It is not in the intention of this forum to DO HOMEWORKS.It is still your job...

Daniel.
 
I found out. Pretty simple... Thanks anyway, I'll be needing your help in the future...

I'll sketch my ideas in the future, I'm pretty lazy. Sorry :/
 
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