The proabability density of an electron

  • Thread starter Thread starter worries
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Density Electron
AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the probability density of an electron based on a given graph of |ψ(x)|². Users are trying to determine the probability of detecting an electron in specific intervals, such as at x = 0.50 cm and x = 0.999 cm, and how many electrons would land in the interval from -0.30 cm to 0.30 cm if 10,000 electrons are detected. There is confusion regarding the calculations, particularly in deriving the correct probability from the graph and understanding the integral needed to find the value 'a' for a neutron's probability density function. Clarifications are provided on how to use the probability density and the expected value formula to solve the problems. The conversation emphasizes the importance of correctly interpreting the graph and applying the relevant equations.
worries
Messages
4
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


The following is a graph of |(x)|^2

https://www.physicsforums.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=14887&d=1217540634

Question is.

What is the probability that an electron will be detected ina 0.0010-cm-wide region at x = 0.50 cm? At x= 0.999 cm?
b) If 10^4 electrons are detected, how many are expected to land in the interval -0.30 cm - 0.30 cm.

Also, let's suppose that this was a graph for the |(x)|^2 of a neutron.
How you you find the value 'a' if it wasn't given?

Homework Equations



I know that Probability of landing at x = (probability density at x )* (length)
Also know that expected value = number of electrons * probability.

But I am having trouble putting these two together. Can some please show me how to do this question?

The Attempt at a Solution



So I think the probability density at 0.50 cm is 0.5 cm^-1 (reading the graph, the slope is -1 so the y value seems to be 0.5 cm^-1)

So P(x) = 0.5 cm^-1* 0.0010 cm = 0.0005? But the answer is 0.005

And I have no idea how to find 'a' by using only the information from the graph.

Can someone help me with this whole concept?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I meant graph of |psi (x)|^2
 
I think your graph's horizontal axis should be labeled in cm.

The slope of your probability density function on the positive-x side is positive one.

To find a, you need to consider the integral of your (or any) probability function from negative infinity to positive infinity.
 
Thread 'Voltmeter readings for this circuit with switches'
TL;DR Summary: I would like to know the voltmeter readings on the two resistors separately in the picture in the following cases , When one of the keys is closed When both of them are opened (Knowing that the battery has negligible internal resistance) My thoughts for the first case , one of them must be 12 volt while the other is 0 The second case we'll I think both voltmeter readings should be 12 volt since they are both parallel to the battery and they involve the key within what the...
Thread 'Correct statement about a reservoir with an outlet pipe'
The answer to this question is statements (ii) and (iv) are correct. (i) This is FALSE because the speed of water in the tap is greater than speed at the water surface (ii) I don't even understand this statement. What does the "seal" part have to do with water flowing out? Won't the water still flow out through the tap until the tank is empty whether the reservoir is sealed or not? (iii) In my opinion, this statement would be correct. Increasing the gravitational potential energy of the...
Back
Top