Quantum particle in a rigid box with 2 given wavefunctions solving for energies

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a quantum mechanics problem involving an electron in a one-dimensional rigid box. Participants explore the implications of two given wavefunctions on the calculation of energy levels and the associated probabilities. The focus is on theoretical aspects and mathematical reasoning related to wavefunctions and the Schrödinger equation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Mathematical reasoning, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a quantum problem involving an electron in a rigid box and proposes two wavefunctions for analysis.
  • Another participant suggests that obtaining E=0 indicates a misunderstanding, as the second derivative of the wavefunction should not be zero at certain points.
  • A participant questions the assumption that the second derivative is zero, arguing that the wavefunction is constant within the segment, which may lead to confusion regarding the derivatives.
  • Another participant points out that the derivatives at the boundaries of the segments are not well defined, implying a need for careful consideration of boundary conditions.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the behavior of the wavefunctions at the boundaries and the implications for calculating energy levels. There is no consensus on the correct interpretation of the derivatives or the resulting energies.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights potential limitations in the assumptions made about the wavefunctions and their derivatives, particularly at the boundaries of the defined segments. The implications of these assumptions on the calculations of energy levels remain unresolved.

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I have a quantum problem that I can't seem to figure out:

There's an electron in a 1-D rigid box of length 2A but it is known to reside in a central segment of 1A with uniform probability of residing within this segment.
There are two possible wavefunctions:
one with constant phase: ψ(x)= 1/√a (a=1A)
and with varying phase: ψ(x)= e^(jxpi/4a)/√a
Both of those wave equations are for within the segment and outside the segment ψ(x)= 0.

Determine the 3 lowest energies expected for each case and the probability of each outcome.

Since the wave equation is 0 outside the segment, I thought I'd treat this as a regular particle in a box problem with the box of length 1A. Then I plugged the ψ(x) given into the Schrödinger's equation to find E for the 2 cases:

d^2/dx^2 ψ(x) = -(2m/h^2)*E*ψ(x)

However, for the first case of constant phase, this gives that E=0 and for the second case, E= (h*pi)^2/(32ma^2) which is really just a constant and I can't get the 3 lowest energies.

What am I doing wrong? Any help would be appreciated!
 
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You would only get E=0 if psi were constant everywhere, but at 0.5 A and 1.5 A, the second derivative of the wavefunction is certainly not 0.
 
My understanding was that from 0-0.5 and 1.5-2, ψ(x)=0 (for both cases), so the second derivative would be 0 as well, no? And within 0.5-1.5 it is just a constant 1/√a so that derivative is also 0.
 
Nevertheless at these very two points the derivatives are not well defined.
 

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