Relativistic correction to quantum mechanical system

In summary, relativistic correction to quantum mechanical system: quantum well with a particle moving in high velocity relative to lab frame (the well moves together with the particle in it). Without relativistic correction there will be a probability for the particle to be outside the well since it's tunneled through the well's wall. This implies the particles have a probability to exceed light speed which contradicts SR. I expect the correction to provide with a wave function that prevents this probability as if the well would have infinite wall height to nullify any probability for a particle to exceed light speed. Please comment.
  • #1
Dilema
37
1
Relativistic correction to quantum mechanical system: quantum well with a particle moving in high velocity relative to lab frame (the well moves together with the particle in it).

Without relativistic correction there will be a probability for the particle to be outside the well since it's tunneled through the well's wall. This implies the particles have a probability to exceed light speed which contradicts SR.
I expect the correction to provide with a wave function that prevents this probability as if the well would have infinite wall height to nullify any probability for a particle to exceed light speed.
Please comment.
If someone knows any successful correction please let me have the link or ref.

Thank you from advance
Dilema
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
You're certainly right that standard Schrodinger quantum mechanics does not know about the speed of light and will happily exceed it. It would seem plausible that you could correct for this and come up with a theory that was similar, but made to be consistent with special relativity. Unfortunately you cannot.

The relativistic "correction" for the Schrodinger equation is the Klein-Gordon equation, and at once this introduces all the complications: the ones associated with antiparticles and pair production. And you find that you're no longer describing a single particle, rather a field with particle-like excitations. There is no half-way.
 
  • #3
Dear Bill K.

I realized that there are other relativistic corrections for Schrödinger equation such as Dirac equation. Please review my understanding.
1) There is no general relativistic correction for Schrödinger equation which is the mother of all equations. Although physicists are trying to find one.
2) Each system has to be constructed with its own equation similar to boundary conditions.
3) Some equations may revile different particle/wave properties that have not been recognized in different equation. It is better to have supportive evidence for these properties before using this equation.
4) It is recommended to test Klein-Gordone or Dirac equations before trying to construct your own personal equation since those equations has been already explored.
 

1. What is a relativistic correction in the context of quantum mechanics?

A relativistic correction is a modification to the equations of quantum mechanics that take into account the effects of relativity, specifically the theory of special relativity. This correction is necessary when dealing with particles that are moving at high speeds, close to the speed of light.

2. Why is a relativistic correction necessary in quantum mechanics?

Quantum mechanics does not take into account the effects of relativity, which becomes important when dealing with high-energy particles. Neglecting these effects can lead to incorrect predictions and calculations.

3. How is a relativistic correction incorporated into quantum mechanical systems?

A relativistic correction is usually introduced through the use of a relativistic wave equation, such as the Dirac equation. This equation includes terms that account for relativistic effects, such as time dilation and length contraction.

4. Can you provide an example of a quantum mechanical system where a relativistic correction is necessary?

An example of a system where a relativistic correction is necessary is the hydrogen atom. At high energies, the electron in the hydrogen atom can move at speeds close to the speed of light, requiring the use of a relativistic correction to accurately describe its behavior.

5. How does a relativistic correction impact the predictions of a quantum mechanical system?

A relativistic correction can lead to changes in the energy levels and behavior of particles in a quantum mechanical system. For example, it can lead to the prediction of additional energy levels and the spin of particles, which are not accounted for in non-relativistic quantum mechanics.

Similar threads

Replies
3
Views
840
  • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
36
Views
1K
Replies
26
Views
2K
Replies
48
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
3
Replies
87
Views
5K
  • Quantum Physics
4
Replies
122
Views
8K
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
41
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
27
Views
2K
Back
Top