Quantum Tunneling: Estimating Probability

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves estimating the probability of quantum tunneling for an electron encountering a potential barrier, specifically focusing on a barrier height of 25eV and widths of 1nm and 0.1nm. The subject area is quantum mechanics, particularly the phenomenon of tunneling.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the tunneling probability formula but expresses uncertainty about their calculations and results. They question where they might be going wrong in their approach.

Discussion Status

Some participants have pointed out a potential error in the use of constants, specifically the distinction between h and ħ (h-bar). There is ongoing exploration of the calculations, and the original poster is seeking further clarification on their results.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes discrepancies between their results and those provided in their textbook and lecture notes, indicating a lack of clarity on the expected outcomes.

fredrick08
Messages
374
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


A 10eV electron is incident on a potential barrier of height 25eV and width 1nm. Estimate (order of magnitude) the probability that the electron will tunnel through the barrier, repeat your calculations for a barrier of 01.nm

Homework Equations


T=16(E/V)(1-(E/V))exp(-2\alphaa)
\alpha=\sqrt{}(2m(V-E))/\hbar

The Attempt at a Solution


E=10eV=1.6x10^-18J, V=25eV=4x10^-18J

\alpha=\sqrt{}(2*9.1x10^-31(4x10^-18-1.6x10^-18))/6.62x10^-34=3.157x10^9

T=3.84exp(-2*3.157x10^9*1x10^-9)=7x10^-3?

the answer is meant to be 9.2x10^-9 or 4.95x10^-13? sorry, my book says 4.95 and the lecturers notes say 9.2... doesn't matter, coz I am way way off...

please can someone help me where i am going wrong?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
sorry about the latex the x is multiply
 
please anyone?
 
Well, the only thing I see is that instead of hbar you used h in your calculations. hbar is a factor of 2pi smaller than h.
 
omg oops, thanks
 
still have wrong answer, anyone know y?
 

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
7K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
37K
  • · Replies 33 ·
2
Replies
33
Views
6K