Wave funtions for a massive particle moving in 1D harmonic oscillating potential

In summary, a wave function is a mathematical representation of a particle's quantum state and describes the probability of finding the particle at a certain position and time. A 1D harmonic oscillating potential is a type of potential energy function used to model systems undergoing simple harmonic motion. The wave function for a particle in this potential is calculated using the Schrödinger equation and must have certain properties such as continuity, differentiability, and square-integrability. It also evolves over time according to the time-dependent Schrödinger equation, with its rate of change depending on the potential energy and mass of the particle.
  • #1
arp777
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If a particle of mass moves in a One-Dimensional harmonic oscillating potential, and the particle is in the first excited state, what will it's wave function look like? And the significance of it being in the first excited state versus the ground state?

Thanks for the input!
 
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What is a wave function for a massive particle?

A wave function is a mathematical representation of the quantum state of a particle. It describes the probability amplitude of finding the particle at a certain position and time.

What is a 1D harmonic oscillating potential?

A 1D harmonic oscillating potential is a type of potential energy function that describes the behavior of a particle in a one-dimensional system that is undergoing simple harmonic motion. It is often used to model systems such as a mass on a spring or a pendulum.

How is a wave function for a massive particle moving in 1D harmonic oscillating potential calculated?

The wave function for a massive particle moving in a 1D harmonic oscillating potential is calculated using the Schrödinger equation, which takes into account the potential energy of the system and the mass of the particle. This equation is solved using various mathematical techniques, such as separation of variables or perturbation theory.

What are the properties of a wave function for a massive particle moving in 1D harmonic oscillating potential?

The wave function for a massive particle in 1D harmonic oscillating potential must be continuous, differentiable, and square-integrable. It must also be normalized, meaning that the total probability of finding the particle in all possible positions is equal to one.

How does the wave function for a massive particle in 1D harmonic oscillating potential change over time?

The wave function for a massive particle in 1D harmonic oscillating potential evolves over time according to the time-dependent Schrödinger equation. This means that the wave function will change in shape and amplitude as the particle moves within the potential. The rate of change depends on the potential energy and the mass of the particle.

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