Solution of Quantum differential equation

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the solution of a quantum differential equation, specifically addressing the form of the general solution and the nature of the constants involved. Participants explore whether the solution should be expressed in terms of real or complex constants, and how this affects the interpretation of the wave function.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a general solution involving complex constants and seeks clarification on how it relates to the answer key's form, which uses real constants.
  • Another participant questions whether the constants A and B in the answer key are specified as real or complex, suggesting that this distinction is crucial for determining the correct form of the solution.
  • Some participants propose that if the wave function φ is complex valued, then the general solution can accommodate complex constants, making both forms equivalent.
  • There is a mathematical exploration of how to derive the answer key's form from the general solution, using Euler's formula and setting up a system of equations for the constants.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the wave function φ should be considered real or complex valued, leading to multiple competing interpretations of the solution. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the nature of the constants and the implications for the solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of the assumptions regarding the nature of φ and the constants A and B, which are not explicitly defined in the answer key. This ambiguity affects the derivation and interpretation of the solution.

Edge5
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pZgfb3s

HPKZ6KD.jpg

(I think I couldn't add the image)
you can see my answer in link

https://pasteboard.co/HPKZ6KD.jpg

(Please first see my answer in the link)
But in answer it is φ= Asin(kx) + Bcos(kx)

I know that euler formula is eix = cosx +isinx

But I can't get this answer can you help me?
 
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In the answer key does it say if the constants A,B are real or complex?

My opinion is that if ##\phi## is complex valued then the general solution is as your answer says (and in your answer the constants A,B can be complex constants).
However if ##\phi## is real valued then the correct answer is as the answer key says that is ##\phi=A\sin(kx)+B\cos(kx)## where A,B are real constants here.
 
Delta2 said:
In the answer key does it say if the constants A,B are real or complex?

My opinion is that if ##\phi## is complex valued then the general solution is as your answer says (and in your answer the constants A,B can be complex constants).
However if ##\phi## is real valued then the correct answer is as the answer key says that is ##\phi=A\sin(kx)+B\cos(kx)## where A,B are real constants here.
Assuming answer is real. How do I get from this general answer to ##\phi=A\sin(kx)+B\cos(kx)##
 
if we assume ##\phi## is real valued then from your general answer (for which i ll use ##A'## and ##B'## to denote the complex constants as well as ##\phi'## for the complex valued function) we ll have (i use Euler's formula to rewrite your general answer).

$$\phi'=A'\cos(kx)+B'\cos(-kx)+i(A'\sin(kx)+B'\sin(-kx))=(A'+B')\cos(kx)+i(A'-B')\sin(kx) \text{(1)}$$

So we just looking for complex constants ##A',B'## such that ##(A'+B')=B (2) ## and ##(A'-B')=-iA (3)## and then for these constants it would be ##\phi=\phi'##. The system of equations (2),(3) has unique solutions for ##A',B'## given that ##A,B## are real.
 
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Now that i think of it again, if we allowed for ##\phi## to be complex valued (since it is a wave function it would be complex valued in general case), and also allow for constants A,B to be complex in the answer key (the answer that your book says), then the answer key and your answer are equivalent.
 
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