Solve two eigenfunctins for a Finite Square Well

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the first two eigenfunctions for a finite square well potential, specifically defined for different regions of x with given energy constraints. The context is rooted in quantum mechanics and eigenvalue problems.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the need to perform integrals to establish conditions for solving the problem, questioning which lines to integrate and how to derive the necessary equations. There is mention of having five unknowns and four conditions, leading to confusion about the setup.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with some participants providing guidance on the approach to take, such as performing integrals first and then solving for unknowns. There are indications of differing interpretations regarding the equations and conditions that need to be satisfied.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the presence of multiple equations derived from boundary conditions and normalization, as well as potential errors in the original equations presented. There is a focus on ensuring all conditions are accounted for in the solution process.

speedofdark8
Messages
6
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



Solve Explicitly the first two eigenfunctions ψ(x) for the finite square wave potential V=V0 for x<a/2 or x>a/2, and V=0 for -a/2<x<a/2, with 0<E<V0.

Homework Equations



See image

The Attempt at a Solution



See image. After modeling an in class example, my classmates and i were stuck here. We have 5 unknowns, and 4 conditions. We know we have integrate the square of each region (as shown) and add to normalize and solve this, but we don't know how to handle/solve for the unknowns

PDeVR.jpg
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
First you must do those integrals to give yourself the final condition. Then you will have five equations, two from each matching point, and the normalization condition. After, its a matter of solving 5 equations and 5 unknowns. If you feel comfortable, use mathematica, if not, do it by hand. Methods of substitution or elimination can get it done.
 
jfy4 said:
First you must do those integrals to give yourself the final condition.

Which lines should be integrated? The ones for the 3 regions or the 4 conditions? I am unclear on how i will be getting 5 equations.

And I presume that you are saying to integrate first, and then solve for the unknowns?
 
The five equations are the two you wrote down for x=a/2, the two you wrote down for x=-a/2, and the normalization condition.

You should recheck your work. There are a few errors in your equations.

Add the first and third equations together, and add the second and fourth equations together. Then divide one result by the other. You should get something like
$$\beta \tan (\beta a/2) = \alpha$$ (or maybe cot instead of tan). You should be able to show that for this to hold, either C or D has to vanish.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
3K
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 39 ·
2
Replies
39
Views
14K
Replies
5
Views
3K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K