Reflection coefficient of the step function potential

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the reflection coefficient for a quantum mechanical problem involving a step function potential, specifically in the case where the energy of the particle is less than the potential energy (E < V0). Participants are exploring the implications of this scenario on the wavefunction behavior and the calculation of the reflection coefficient.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the wavefunction solutions in different regions of the potential and question the next steps in the analysis. There is a focus on the definition of the reflection coefficient and the conditions under which it can be calculated. Some participants express confusion regarding the nature of the wavefunctions and their implications for the reflection coefficient.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants attempting to clarify the necessary steps to calculate the reflection coefficient. There is an acknowledgment of the need to match the wavefunction and its derivative at the boundary, but uncertainty remains about the implications of the wavefunctions being real or complex.

Contextual Notes

Participants are operating under the constraints of a homework problem, which may limit the information available for discussion. The original poster's attempt includes specific wavefunction forms, but there is a lack of clarity on how to proceed with the analysis.

kakarotyjn
Messages
95
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


Consider the step function potential: V(x) = \{ \begin{array}{*{20}c}<br /> {0,(x \le 0)} \\<br /> {V_0 ,(x &gt; 0)} \\<br /> \end{array},Caculate the reflection coefficient,for the case E<V0,and comment on the answer


Homework Equations


- \frac{{\hbar ^2 }}{{2m}}\frac{{d^2 \psi }}{{dx^2 }} + V_0 \psi = E\psi


The Attempt at a Solution


when x<=0,let k = \frac{{\sqrt {2mE} }}{\hbar },then \psi (x) = Ae^{kxi} + Be^{ - kxi},if x>0,then let l = \frac{{\sqrt {2m(V_0 - E)} }}{\hbar },and \psi (x) = De^{ - lx}


Then how do we explain it?The funtion is real in the right
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
So far, all you've done is written down the solutions to the wave equation in two regions. What's the next step? What's the definition of the reflection coefficient?
 
In the book,if psi(x) is not real in the right and left,then we can find the transmission and reflection coefficient.But in this question,it's not all complex.

definition of the reflection coefficient?You must know Quantum Tunneliing.it that one
 
I know what the reflection coefficient is. It's not clear to me that you did from your initial post.

It doesn't matter if all the solutions are not complex. The next step is the same: match the wavefunction and its derivative at the boundary.
 
Thanks very much.But why?how should we think about it?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
5K
Replies
2
Views
2K