Quantum Linear Harmonic Oscillator: Typical Values for x and E | Homework Help

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In summary, the task is to find typical values for the length (amplitude) x and energy E of a quantum linear harmonic oscillator. The energy equation for the oscillator is E = (\frac{1}{2} + n) \hbar\omega with n = 0, 1, 2, ... where \hbar = 10^{-34}. The only equation involving length is V(x) = 0,5 m \omega^2 x^2. The question is not very clear, but it is similar to finding the energy E for an atom, where E = \hbar \omega and \hbar = 10^{-34} and E is about 1eV = 10^{-19
  • #1
frerk
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hello :)

1. Homework Statement


I have to show typical values for length (amplitude) x and energy E of a quantum linear harmonic oscillator

Homework Equations



maybe this one: [tex] E = (\frac{1}{2} + n) \hbar\omega [/tex] with n = 0, 1, 2, ...

But here are 2 unknown variables: E and omega. [tex]\hbar = 10^{-34} [/tex]

and the only equation with has sth. do to with the length is: [tex] V(x) = 0,5 m \omega^2 x^2 [/tex]

Thank you for your help :)
 
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  • #2
frerk said:

Homework Statement



I have to show typical values for length (amplitude) x and energy E of a quantum linear harmonic oscillator
That's not a very clear question. Can you write down the question as asked?
frerk said:
[tex]\hbar = 10^{-34} [/tex]
That's only the order of magnitude.
 
  • #3
That is almost exactly how this task is written. Yes, right, that ist just the order. I try to explain it with a similar easy example: the energy E for an atom is [tex] E = \hbar \omega [/tex] . We know that [tex] \hbar [/tex] = 10^-34 and E is about 1eV = 10^-19 J. So a typical value for omega is 10^-15. And at the task I have to do the same with the lho. Is it more clear now? :)
 

1. What is a quantum linear harmonic oscillator?

A quantum linear harmonic oscillator is a physical system in which the potential energy is proportional to the square of the displacement from equilibrium. It is an important model in quantum mechanics and is used to describe the behavior of particles such as electrons in a potential well.

2. What are typical values for x and E in a quantum linear harmonic oscillator?

The value of x, which represents the displacement from equilibrium, can range from negative infinity to positive infinity. However, the most probable values for x are close to zero. The energy, E, can also take on any value, but the most probable values are multiples of the fundamental energy level, known as the zero-point energy.

3. How is the quantum linear harmonic oscillator different from the classical harmonic oscillator?

In classical mechanics, the energy of a harmonic oscillator increases continuously as the amplitude of the oscillations increases. In contrast, in a quantum linear harmonic oscillator, the energy is quantized and can only take on certain discrete values. Additionally, the classical harmonic oscillator can have any energy, while the quantum linear harmonic oscillator cannot have energies below the zero-point energy.

4. What is the significance of the zero-point energy in a quantum linear harmonic oscillator?

The zero-point energy is the minimum possible energy that a quantum oscillator can have. It represents the lowest energy state of the system and is a consequence of the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. The zero-point energy has important implications in various fields, such as quantum field theory and cosmology.

5. How is the quantum linear harmonic oscillator used in practical applications?

The quantum linear harmonic oscillator has various practical applications in fields such as quantum computing, spectroscopy, and nanotechnology. It is also used as a model in studying more complex systems, such as molecules and solids. Understanding the behavior of the quantum linear harmonic oscillator is crucial in developing new technologies and advancing our knowledge of the quantum world.

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