Wavefunction: Particle in a 1-dimensional potential Well

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the wave function of a particle in a one-dimensional potential well of length L, specifically for the quantum state n=2 and mass m. The original poster expresses uncertainty regarding the wave equation and the normalization process.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to normalize the wave function and seeks clarification on calculating probability. Some participants question the specifics of the probability calculation and suggest specifying the probability question further.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the original poster's attempts, providing guidance on normalization and the integral needed for probability calculations. There is an acknowledgment of the need to compute an integral involving a sine-squared term, but no consensus has been reached on the exact steps to take.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions needing to calculate the probability for the first half of the box, indicating a specific focus within the broader problem context. There is also a reference to using a specific integral related to trigonometric functions.

samdiah
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Homework Statement



Find the wave function of particle in a 1-dimensional potential Well of length L, n=2 and mass m

Homework Equations



I think this would be the wave equation, but not 100% sure
[tex]\varphi=Asin(n\pix/L)[\tex] where n=1,2,3...<br /> <br /> tex doesn't work for me---=Asin[n*pi/L]<br /> <br /> <h2>The Attempt at a Solution</h2><br /> <br /> I tried to normalize the function using what the book says and came up with <br /> <br /> integral of (sin<sup>2</sup>[n*pi/L]dx[<br /> <br /> Is this right? Now I need to find probability with this...how would I do this? Can someone please tell me if I am on the right footsteps?<br /> <br /> Any help is appreciated.[/tex]
 
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What do you mean with "I need to find probability with this" ?

Probability for what? You have not specified that yet.

Try this with tex:

[tex]\varphi (x) = A\ sin(n\pi x/L)[/tex]

You may insert n=2 already at this stage.

Then you are on the right track;
[tex]|A|^2 \int _0^L\varphi ^*(x)\varphi (x) = 1[/tex]
(If you have an INFINITE deep potential well)

So work this integral out, then specify what your probability question is.
 
Thanks. Ok for the probability we have this mass m in length of box L with state n=2. we r suppose to calculate probability for 1st half of the box. I know i have to take integral of half the box from 0 to l/2 but not sure how.
 

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