How Much Energy Does an Electron Need to Tunnel Through a Barrier?

In summary, the conversation discusses an electron approaching a potential barrier and its chance of tunneling through. The relevant equations are provided, including the transmission probability formula. The question asks for the energy of the electron given a 1% chance of tunneling through a potential barrier that is 10eV high and 0.5nm wide. The individual has attempted to solve for E but is having trouble rearranging the given formula. The possibility of solving the problem numerically is also mentioned.
  • #1
tricky1
1
0

Homework Statement


An electron approaches a potential barrier 10eV high and 0.5nm wide. If the electron has a 1%chance of tunneling through, what must be its energy?


Homework Equations


Transmission probability = [C/A]^2= [ 1 + (U^2 sinh^2(mu alpha))/(4E(U-E))]^-1


where U=potential=10eV
E=energy of electron
mu=sqrt(2m(U-E)/hbar^2)
alpha = width of box = 0.5 nm


The Attempt at a Solution




I've substituted everything in and fiddled for ages but I really can't rearrange to make E the subject of this formula. can anyone help?
 
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  • #2
What have you tried? Show us.

And have you considered the possiblity to solve this numerically?
 

Related to How Much Energy Does an Electron Need to Tunnel Through a Barrier?

What is the Tunneling Probability Problem?

The Tunneling Probability Problem is a phenomenon in quantum mechanics where a particle has a non-zero probability of passing through a potential barrier, even though it does not have enough energy to overcome the barrier.

What causes tunneling to occur?

Tunneling occurs due to the wave-like nature of particles in quantum mechanics. According to the wave-particle duality principle, particles can behave like waves and have a finite probability of passing through barriers.

How is tunneling probability calculated?

Tunneling probability is calculated using the Schrödinger equation, which describes the behavior of quantum particles. The equation takes into account the energy of the particle, the height and width of the barrier, and the shape of the potential well.

What are some real-world applications of the tunneling probability problem?

Tunneling has several practical applications, such as in scanning tunneling microscopy, which uses the tunneling of electrons to create images of surfaces at the atomic level. It is also important in the development of tunnel diodes, which are used in electronic devices like microwave oscillators and amplifiers.

Can tunneling be observed in everyday life?

Tunneling is a phenomenon that occurs at the quantum level and is not observable in everyday life. However, its effects can be seen in various technological applications, as mentioned above.

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