Solve Step Problem: Potential Homework

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a physics problem related to potential energy and wave functions, specifically focusing on calculating transmission coefficient T in a quantum mechanics context. The original poster is attempting to solve parts (d) and (e) of the problem, with particular emphasis on the calculation of T.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the substitution of k into the equation for T and the implications of the mass of the particle not being provided. Questions arise regarding the cancellation of mass terms in the equation.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing guidance on examining the equation for T after substitution. There is an ongoing exploration of the mathematical relationships involved, particularly concerning the cancellation of terms.

Contextual Notes

The original poster notes the absence of the mass of the particle in the problem statement, which is influencing their approach to finding T. This missing information is a point of concern in the calculations being discussed.

tarkin
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Homework Statement


Please see attached image. I'm trying to do part (d), then (e) afterwards.

For (d) I can sketch the graph okay, just trying to calculate T now.

Homework Equations


T= 4k1k2/(k1+k2)2

k = ((2m/ћ)2(E-V))½

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried substituting in k into the equation for T. But k depends on the mass of the particle, which isn't given in the question. So what can I do here? I guess one option is just finding the point on the graph, but that's not really a calculation.
 

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tarkin said:
I tried substituting in k into the equation for T. But k depends on the mass of the particle, which isn't given in the question. So what can I do here?
Look carefully at the equation for T after having substituted the equation for k.
 
DrClaude said:
Look carefully at the equation for T after having substituted the equation for k.

When I subbed in k I hoped the m's would cancel but I couldn't get them to. Is it just some mistake I'm making - should they indeed cancel?

Thanks
 
tarkin said:
When I subbed in k I hoped the m's would cancel but I couldn't get them to. Is it just some mistake I'm making - should they indeed cancel?
It should. You have k's squared both at the numerator and the denominator.
 
DrClaude said:
It should. You have k's squared both at the numerator and the denominator.

Okay, I'll take another look at my working out. Thanks a million!
 

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