Solving Schroedinger Eqn: Interpreting Separation Constant G as Energy

In summary, the Schrodinger equation can be solved for the zero potential situation by interpreting the separation constant G as the energy of the system. This is supported by the fact that in classical Hamiltonian mechanics, if only conservative forces are present, the Hamiltonian equals the total energy of the system. While the derivation of the equation may not be considered a proof, it has been accepted because it has been shown to work in practical applications. Thus, the interpretation of G as energy is valid.
  • #1
DaTario
1,039
35
Hi All,

When solving the Schroedinger equation for the zero potential situation, what is the argument for interpreting the separation constant G as the energy of the system. The dimensional aspect I understand but it seems not to be suficient. I guess I am missing some detail.

Best wishes,

DaTario
 
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  • #2
The Schrodinger equation is [itex] \tilde{H} \psi=i\hbar\frac{\partial \psi}{\partial t} [/itex] where [itex] \tilde{H} [/itex] is the Hamiltonian of the system.If Hamiltonian is independent of time,then a separation is possible which gives,as the spatial part, [itex] \tilde{H}\psi=G\psi [/itex].
One reason to interpret G as the energy of the system,is that in classical Hamiltonian mechanics,if only conservative forces are present,Hamiltonian equals the total energy of the system.
But the main reason is that,it works!
Schrodinger derived his equation but you can't call such derivations proofs because they're all based on things not so much accepted.People just postulate things and if it turns out to work,so its OK.Schrodinger postulated G to be energy and it turned out to work.
 

Related to Solving Schroedinger Eqn: Interpreting Separation Constant G as Energy

What is the Schrödinger equation and why is it important in physics?

The Schrödinger equation is a mathematical equation that describes how quantum particles, such as electrons, behave in space and time. It is an important equation in physics because it allows us to understand and predict the behavior of these particles, which is crucial in fields such as quantum mechanics and atomic physics.

What is the Separation Constant G in the Schrödinger equation and how is it related to energy?

The Separation Constant G is a term in the Schrödinger equation that helps to separate the equation into two parts - one describing the spatial behavior of the particle and the other describing its time evolution. It is related to energy because it is equal to the energy of the system divided by Planck's constant, and it determines the energy levels of the particle in a given potential.

How is the Separation Constant G interpreted in terms of the energy spectrum of a quantum system?

The Separation Constant G can be interpreted as the spacing between energy levels in a quantum system. This means that a larger value of G corresponds to a wider spacing between energy levels and a smaller value of G corresponds to a narrower spacing. This is important in understanding the energy spectrum of a quantum system and how the energy levels are related to each other.

What are the units of the Separation Constant G in the Schrödinger equation?

The units of the Separation Constant G depend on the units used for energy and Planck's constant in the equation. However, in most cases, G has units of energy per momentum. This can be seen from the fact that it is equal to the energy divided by Planck's constant, which has units of energy multiplied by time. Therefore, the units of G are typically expressed as energy multiplied by time per momentum.

How is the Separation Constant G calculated in a given quantum system?

The value of the Separation Constant G can be calculated by solving the Schrödinger equation for a given quantum system. This involves determining the potential energy function of the system and then using mathematical techniques to solve the equation and find the values of G that satisfy the equation. The specific method for solving the Schrödinger equation will depend on the complexity of the system and the techniques used by the scientist.

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