Wavefunction normalization help

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the normalization of the wavefunction psi(x) = A(1 - e^(ikx)) for the interval 0 < x < 2pi/k. The integral of psi multiplied by its conjugate must equal 1 for normalization. The correct conjugate is psi*(x) = A(1 - e^(-ikx), leading to the expression 2A^2 - A^2(e^(ikx) - e^(-ikx)). The solution involves simplifying this expression and dividing by 2A^2 to achieve the normalization condition.

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Homework Statement



psi(x) = A(1 - e^(ikx)) if 0 < x < 2pi/k



Homework Equations



integral of psi * psi conjugate over all space = 1

The Attempt at a Solution



the conjugate is psi*(x) = A(1 - e^(-ikx))

so when I multiply psi and psi* , I get 2 - e^(-ikx) - e^(ikx)

I can't integrate this? Please help! Did I mess up the conjugate?
 
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Not knowing anything about wavefunctions, just on the information you gave me, I think you multiplied incorrectly (left out the A):

(A-Ae^(ikx))*(A-Ae^(-ikx)) = 2A^2-A^2*(e^(ikx)-e^(-ikx)) = 1

From there, I'm seeing a chance to divide by 2A^2, so you have something like 1-sinh(u) = (1/(2A^2)) where u=ikx.

EDIT: Also, I assumed x, A, and k are real.
 

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