Quantum Mechanics - Question about the Finite Square Well

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a quantum mechanics problem related to the finite square well, specifically focusing on boundary conditions and wave functions. The original poster is preparing for an exam and is struggling with part c of a question after successfully addressing earlier parts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster considers shifting boundary conditions but encounters issues with the consistency condition. Some participants suggest examining the nodes of the wave function in relation to an infinite well, while others prompt drawing wave functions to identify where nodes intersect with the energy line.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, offering suggestions and prompting further exploration of the wave functions. The original poster indicates a potential breakthrough in understanding the question, particularly regarding the implications of modifying the potential and applying boundary conditions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes considerations of boundary conditions and potential modifications, with specific references to the behavior of wave functions in different regions of the potential well. There is an emphasis on the need for clarity regarding the consistency condition required for the problem.

rachelph
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Hi,

I'm preparing for an exam, and I'm going over past papers. I've solved parts a & b of this question without any problems, however I'm finding it hard to understand part c.

phyqm.png


I thought of shifting the boundary conditions so I'd have 0 and L in the place of ± L/2, but that would not work because the boundary condition to solve the consistency condition requires x = L/2.
Could I get some pointers on where to start? I'm incredibly lost.
 
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if V = 0 for x < 0 think about where the nodes of the wave function are for an infinite well...
 
Dr Transport said:
if V = 0 for x < 0 think about where the nodes of the wave function are for an infinite well...
Between x = 0 and x = L/2?
 
draw the wave functions for an infinite well, where does the central node cross the energy line??
 
Dr Transport said:
draw the wave functions for an infinite well, where does the central node cross the energy line??

Alright, I think I have finally figured out the question.

So, before, I had V = 0 for x < -L/2, V = 0 for x > L/2, and V = -Vo for -L/2 < x < L/2.

If the potential is modified such that x < 0 is V = ∞. I'd still have V = -Vo for 0 < x < L/2. and V = 0 for x > L/2
This means that the wavefunction for region 3 (x > L/2) would still hold the same as in part b, and for 0 < x < L/2 the wavefunction would be the same as in the classically allowed region as in part b. So when I apply the boundary condition at x = L/2 I'm going to get the same consistency condition seen in part b, as required.
 

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