Schrødinger equation deriving diff equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the derivation of the time-independent Schrödinger equation, with participants exploring various approaches and expressing concerns about the validity of a specific derivation presented in an attachment. The scope includes theoretical aspects of quantum mechanics and derivation techniques.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a derivation of the time-independent Schrödinger equation but expresses uncertainty about its correctness.
  • Another participant critiques the derivation, specifically questioning the relevance of charge density and suggesting that the derivation lacks a physical basis.
  • Some participants mention the Lagrangian approach as a more elegant method for deriving the Schrödinger equation, referencing specific literature for further study.
  • There is a discussion about the complexity of Schrödinger's equation and the role of complex numbers in quantum mechanics, with references to classical analogies.
  • A participant acknowledges the shortcomings of their derivation and seeks further assistance in resolving their issues.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the validity of the original derivation. Multiple competing views are presented regarding the appropriate methods for deriving the Schrödinger equation, and the discussion remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference various sources and approaches, indicating that the discussion is influenced by differing levels of familiarity with quantum mechanics and derivation techniques. There are unresolved concerns about the assumptions made in the original derivation.

fisher garry
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In the attachment I have used the derivation of the wave equation with a slight modification to derive the diff equation that when solved gives the time independent schrødinger equation. Since I have dome this myself I am worried that this might be totally wrong or a bit wrong. Could someone look through and see if they seem to believe that the derivation is ok or point out what is wrong. Thanks!
 

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I haven't gone through it in detail, but from a quick glance it looks ok - except for your charge density thing.

However a string has got nothing to do with Schroedinger's equation. Your equating to charge density is simply pulled out of nowhere with no physical basis whatsoever.

The most elegant derivation however is from the Lagrangian:
http://faculty.cua.edu/sober/612/Lagrangian_wave_eq.pdf

If you haven't encountered Lagrangian's yet it would really help your studies in QM. At the beginner level Susskind's book is good:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/046502811X/?tag=pfamazon01-20

The true basis of Schrödinger's equation is symmetry, and you will find its correct derivation in Chapter 3 of Ballentine:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/9810241054/?tag=pfamazon01-20

It is however advanced so will likely be a challenge to follow at the beginner level - but persevere - you will get the gist.

Also understanding that symmetry is the rock bottom essence of much of physics is one of the truly great insights and, once understood, is quite breathtaking in its beauty. Enough said - you must experience it for yourself. Just to set the stage:
http://www.pnas.org/content/93/25/14256.full

Thanks
Bill
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Thanks for the reply and the links. I see that the string can have nothing to do with the schrødinger equation I am just making an attempt of a derivation.

In hindsight I found out that I did not get my derivation. My problem is in the attachment. Can anyone get me out of it?
 

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Last edited:
Note Schroedinger's equation is complex - and your added bit from Maxwell's equations are real.

To see a correct derivation, as mentioned previously, read chapter 3 - Ballentine.

But if you want to see how its derived from classical analogies check out:
http://arxiv.org/pdf/1204.0653.pdf

There you will see the key assumption is complex numbers - that's the magic - and mystery of QM and why your attempt will fail.

Actually its not a mystery - Feynman sorted it out years ago - but that is another story - the link above explains it.

Thanks
Bill
 
Last edited:
Thanks for the reply! I guess the derivation from your link or the maxwell equation derivation will get me the answer. And that my attempt seems a bit out of bounds. o0)
 

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