Solve Physics Problem: Wave Function

In summary, the conversation is about a physics problem involving a particle with a given wave function. The conversation covers topics such as finding constants, determining frequency, satisfying the Schrödinger equation, and calculating the expected value of position using probability. The conversation also includes clarifications and corrections on terminology and formulas.
  • #1
mlee
24
0
hey who can help me with this physics problem?

A particle of mass m is in the state:
Ψ (x, t) = Aexp[-a(sqrt (mx^2) / h)-i (at / sqrt(m )) ]
where A and a are positive real constants.
a) Determine A.
b) What is the frequency ƒ associated with the wave function of this particle?
Explain your reasoning.
c) For what potential energy function U(x), does Ψ satisfy the Schrödinger
equation?
d) If we use the interpretation of [Ψ(x)]^2 dx as the probability that a particle of
mass m can be found in a region of width dx around the position x,
calculate the expected value (average value) of the position x.


Many thanx
 
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  • #2
A. Normalize it.
[tex]\int_{-\infty}^{+\infty} \psi^*(x) \psi(x) dx =1[/tex]
B. Please don't make me do that. I have my own. It's probably just hard work.
C. Differentiate it and place it in Shroedinger's equation. You'll get the potential.
D. By definition:
[tex]<x>=\int \psi^*(x) x \psi(x)\,dx[/tex]
 
Last edited:
  • #3
Palindrom said:
C. Derive it and place it in Shroedinger's equation. You'll get the potential.

By "derive", you mean "differentiate" or "take the derivative", right? Those things don't mean the same as "derive".
 
  • #4
Nylex said:
By "derive", you mean "differentiate" or "take the derivative", right? Those things don't mean the same as "derive".
That's what I meant. You'll have to forgive me, I'm not used to saying it in English.
 
  • #5
Palindrom said:
A. Normalize it.
[tex]\int_{a}^{b} \psi dx =1[/tex]
For a and b being - and + infinity.
B. Please don't make me do that. I have my own. It's probably just hard work.
C. Differentiate it and place it in Shroedinger's equation. You'll get the potential.
D. By definition:
[tex]<x>=\int \psi^*(x) x \psi(x)\,dx[/tex]

1.Your edited your post and now it's "differentiate".
2.The first formula is incorrect;it has something missing:
[tex]\int_{-\infty}^{+\infty} \psi^*(x) \psi(x) dx =1[/tex]
The rest is correct and i agree with you.
 
  • #6
dextercioby said:
1.Your edited your post and now it's "differentiate".
2.The first formula is incorrect;it has something missing:
[tex]\int_{-\infty}^{+\infty} \psi^*(x) \psi(x) dx =1[/tex]
The rest is correct and i agree with you.
Thanks for the correction, I edited.
 

1. What is a wave function in physics?

A wave function in physics is a mathematical representation of a quantum system, such as a particle or a wave, that describes its properties and behavior. It is used to calculate the probability of finding a particle in a particular state or location.

2. How do you solve a wave function problem?

To solve a wave function problem, you need to follow a set of mathematical equations and rules, which involve finding the eigenvalues and eigenvectors of the system. These values represent the energy and state of the system and can then be used to calculate the probability of finding the particle in a particular state.

3. What is the Schrödinger equation and how is it related to wave functions?

The Schrödinger equation is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics that describes how the wave function of a quantum system evolves over time. It is used to calculate the wave function at different points in time, which then allows us to determine the probability of finding the particle in a particular state.

4. Can a wave function be visualized?

No, a wave function cannot be visualized in the traditional sense as it is a mathematical concept. It represents the probability of finding a particle in a particular state and does not have a physical form that can be visualized.

5. Are there any real-life applications of wave functions?

Yes, wave functions have numerous real-life applications in fields such as quantum mechanics, atomic and molecular physics, and material science. They are used to predict the behavior and properties of quantum systems, which has practical applications in technology, such as the development of transistors and lasers.

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