Quantum Tunneling: Estimating Probability

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on estimating the tunneling probability of a 10eV electron through a 25eV potential barrier, with calculations yielding a probability that differs from expected values. The primary formula used is T=16(E/V)(1-(E/V))exp(-2α), where α is calculated based on the mass of the electron and the energy difference between the potential and the electron's energy. A user identifies a potential error in using Planck's constant instead of the reduced Planck's constant (ħ) in their calculations. Despite corrections, the user still arrives at an incorrect probability, prompting requests for further assistance. The conversation highlights common pitfalls in quantum tunneling calculations and the importance of using the correct constants.
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?
 
Thread 'Help with Time-Independent Perturbation Theory "Good" States Proof'
(Disclaimer: this is not a HW question. I am self-studying, and this felt like the type of question I've seen in this forum. If there is somewhere better for me to share this doubt, please let me know and I'll transfer it right away.) I am currently reviewing Chapter 7 of Introduction to QM by Griffiths. I have been stuck for an hour or so trying to understand the last paragraph of this proof (pls check the attached file). It claims that we can express Ψ_{γ}(0) as a linear combination of...
Back
Top