Quantum mechanics: Quantum particle in a harmonic oscillator potential motion

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the motion of a quantum particle in a harmonic oscillator potential defined by V(x) = (mω²x²)/2. The participant seeks assistance in solving four key problems: normalizing the wave function, deriving the time-evolved wave function Ψ(x,t), calculating the probability density |Ψ(x,t)|², and determining the expectation value of energy. The time evolution operator e^{-iHt/ħ} is crucial for solving the second problem, and the normalization involves an infinite geometric series.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics concepts, specifically harmonic oscillators.
  • Familiarity with wave functions and eigenstates in quantum mechanics.
  • Knowledge of the time evolution operator in quantum systems.
  • Ability to work with infinite geometric series in mathematical contexts.
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn about quantum harmonic oscillator eigenstates and their properties.
  • Study the application of the time evolution operator e^{-iHt/ħ} in quantum mechanics.
  • Explore normalization techniques for wave functions in quantum systems.
  • Investigate the calculation of expectation values in quantum mechanics.
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, particularly those preparing for exams or presentations on harmonic oscillators, as well as educators seeking to clarify these concepts for their students.

rapupaux
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I'm sorry if the form of my post does not meet the general requirements(this is the first time i work with any kind of LaTeX) and I promise that my next posts will be more adequate. Right now I am in serious need of someone explaining me this problem, since on the 6th of June I'm supposed to present it to my QM professor for extra points in the exam given on the same day.

Any help will be much appreciated!
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A quantum particle is moving in a harmonic oscillator potential [tex]V(x)=\frac{m\omega^{2}x^{2}}{2}[/tex].The eigenstates are denoted by |n> while the wave functions are: [tex]\Psi_{n}(x)=<x|n>[/tex].

At t=0 the system is in the state:

[tex]|\Psi (t=0) > = A \sum_{n} (\frac{1}{\sqrt{2}})^{n}| n>[/tex]

1) Find the constant A
2) Obtain the expression for the wave function at a latter time: [tex]\Psi(x,t)\equiv<x|\Psi(t)>[/tex]
3) Calculate the probability density: [tex]| \Psi(x,t) |^{2}[/tex]
4) Calculate the expectation value of the energy.
 
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for the 1) normalise psi and you get an infinite geometric series so look up infinite geometric series

for 2) use the time evolution operator [tex]e^{-iHt/ \hbar}[/tex] where H is the Hamiltonian which acting on eigenstates just replaces the operator with the eigenvalue and again you get an infinite geometric series

do you know how to do the rest?
 

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