Solving the Schrodinger Equation for V(x)=A sech^2(αx)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the Schrödinger equation for a specific potential, V(x) = A sech²(αx). Participants are exploring the nature of bound states and the characteristics of wave functions associated with this potential.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss how to incorporate the potential into the Schrödinger equation and the necessary boundary conditions. Questions arise regarding the identification of non-node bound states among possible wave functions for the given potential.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing guidance on how to approach the problem. Some have suggested plotting the potential and considering the characteristics of bound states, while others are clarifying the conditions that define bound states and nodes.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of incomplete sentences and unclear definitions regarding the nature of bound states and wave functions, which may affect the clarity of the discussion.

Mahasweta
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1. How can I solve the Schrödinger equation for a potential V(x)= A sech^2(αx) ? How do I come to know that whether sech(αx) is a non-node bound state of the particular or not?




2. p^2/2m + V(x) = E



3. exp(kx)[A tanh(αx) + C]
 
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Welcome to PF;
How can I solve the Schrödinger equation for a potential V(x)= A sech^2(αx) ?
You put the potential into the Schrödinger equation with appropriate boundary conditions - just like any DE.
Note: $$\text{sech}(x)=\frac{2e^{-x}}{1+e^{-2x}}$$

How do I come to know that whether sech(αx) is a non-node bound state of the particular or not?
... "non bound state of a particular" what? That sentence is incomplete.

i.e. are you saying that you are given ##\psi=\text{sech}(ax)## and you want to know if it is the wavefuction of a bound energy eigenstate of the potential you've been given, if it is a bound state of any potential or what?

You can figure out a lot about a potential by plotting it and using your experience of solving for different wells - like what sorts of potentials have bound states etc.
 
I meant that for a particular potential how do I come to know that among a set of wave functions for that potential which one is non-node bound state?
 
Well you have two conditions to be satisfied here.
1. the state is bound
2. the state has no nodes

Do you know how to test for these conditions separately?
Do you know what these conditions mean?

Perhaps this will help?
http://arxiv.org/pdf/quant-ph/0702260.pdf
 

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