Simple exponential multiplication (electron interfernce)

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the interference of two electrons modeled as 1-D waves, represented by the wave functions \(\Psi_{1} = \Psi_{0} e^{jkx}\) and \(\Psi_{2} = \Psi_{0} e^{-jkx}\). The total wave function is derived by summing these two functions, leading to \(\Psi_{total} = \Psi_{0}(e^{jkx} + e^{-jkx})\). Utilizing Euler's formula, the result simplifies to \(\Psi_{total} = 2\Psi_{0} \cos(kx)\), demonstrating the cancellation of imaginary sine terms and the addition of real cosine terms. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing and applying fundamental identities in wave function analysis.

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  • Understanding of wave functions in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with Euler's formula
  • Basic knowledge of interference patterns
  • Concept of probability amplitudes in quantum mechanics
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  • Explore the concept of wave function superposition
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Students of quantum mechanics, physicists analyzing wave functions, and anyone interested in the principles of electron interference and wave behavior.

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Homework Statement



Briefly, the question asks to prove how the interference of 2 electrons (travelling in opposite directions as 1-D waves) would affect the probability of finding each electron in free space. My issue has to do with the first step in the solution.


Homework Equations



[tex]\Psi_{1}[/tex] = [tex]\Psi_{0}[/tex] [tex]e^{jkx}[/tex]
[tex]\Psi_{2}[/tex] = [tex]\Psi_{0}[/tex] [tex]e^{-jkx}[/tex] (Note change in direction)

Hence the interference of these two functions will be given by their sum:
[tex]\Psi_{total}[/tex] = [tex]\Psi_{0}[/tex] [tex]e^{jkx}[/tex] [tex]\Psi_{0}[/tex] · [tex]e^{-jkx}[/tex] (i)
[tex]\Psi_{total}[/tex] = 2[tex]\Psi_{0}[/tex] cos (kx) (ii)


The Attempt at a Solution



I just don't understand how to get (ii) from (i)... thanks for looking!
 
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A correction (You put a multiplication sign instead of an addition one. I think that was your mistake):

[tex]\Psi_{total}=\Psi_0(e^{jkx}+e^{-jkx})[/tex]
Use Euler's formula, and just see that the imaginary sine terms cancel, while the real cosine terms add up.

[tex]e^{i\theta}=\cos \theta + i\sin \theta[/tex]
 
Ah I see! I tend to forget simple steps like that which involve such simple identities. Thanks!
(PS: That was a typo on my part)
 

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