Understanding a question about a finite energy well when E < 0

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the behavior of a particle in a finite potential well, particularly when the energy of the particle is less than zero. Participants are exploring concepts related to quantum physics, specifically the implications of energy levels and wave functions in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the validity of solutions when certain energy conditions are met, particularly regarding the relationship between variables like alpha and k. There are inquiries about the nature of wave functions and their behavior when encountering potential barriers, as well as the requirement for integer wavelengths in bound states.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing with various participants attempting to clarify their understanding of the problem. Some have provided references for further reading, while others are actively questioning the assumptions and definitions related to energy levels and wave behavior in the finite well scenario.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the relationship between energy, potential barriers, and wave functions, as well as the implications of energy being less than zero in this quantum context. Participants are navigating complex concepts without a clear consensus on the interpretations being discussed.

drop_out_kid
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Homework Statement
So I didn't get how professor make wave function to be odd and even and then magically solved them,..
Relevant Equations
None, it's non-analytical.
1650403916840.png


So
1650403960714.png
,solution only fit for one of them , the other one is not zero , how can that be solution??
1650404029135.png


I am pretty new to quantum physics..
 
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hutchphd said:
This is not easy nor is it simple. But is is useful. NYou might take a look at the 1-D section of

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finite_potential_well

as a start.Tell us exactly
  1. the question you are trying to answer and
  2. how you intend to answer it.
So, it is trying to solve this eqs
1650406530423.png
right, there are two variables , alpha and k, all related to E , so when this stands, there will be a valid E. the question is , the valid E for both of them are not stand together, how can there be "combined solutions"?
 

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hutchphd said:
This is not easy nor is it simple. But is is useful. NYou might take a look at the 1-D section of

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finite_potential_well

as a start.Tell us exactly
  1. the question you are trying to answer and
  2. how you intend to answer it.
Also, may I ask that, if potential V0 > 0 and it's a constant, so when the particle with E > V0 pass this potential barrier, the wave amplitude doesn't change but the wavenumber decrease right(Some energy convert to potential energy?) and where the energy transfer to?
 
hutchphd said:
This is not easy nor is it simple. But is is useful. NYou might take a look at the 1-D section of

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finite_potential_well

as a start.Tell us exactly
  1. the question you are trying to answer and
  2. how you intend to answer it.
1650407066650.png
let me say from this. does the particle in the finite well must have a integer number of wavelengths?
 
In one dimension there is always at least one bound state for any finite square well (and it will be the lowest symmetric state) . There may be many more depending upon the depth and width of the well.

You are trying to learn a big chunk of quantum in one bite here!
 

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