What is the v(p) polynomial in radial wave function

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the polynomial v(ρ) in the context of the radial Schrödinger equation, specifically identifying it as the associated Laguerre polynomial. Participants clarify that the maximum angular momentum quantum number, j_{max}=n-l-1, determines the degree of the polynomial, and this relationship indicates that the quantum number n is dependent on ℓ and j_{max}. The conversation highlights the significance of these polynomials in quantum mechanics and their relevance to applied mathematics.

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  • Understanding of the radial Schrödinger equation
  • Familiarity with quantum numbers (n, l, j)
  • Knowledge of Laguerre polynomials
  • Basic principles of quantum mechanics
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lonewolf219
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I think the solution to the radial Schrödinger equation includes a form of the Laguerre polynomials, the polynomial v(ρ). Does anyone know what this v(ρ) polynomial is called? The only information my book gives is: "The polynomial v(ρ) is a function well known to applied mathematicians."

Also, I noticed that when solving for the coefficients of v(ρ), we used a quantity called j_{max}=n-l-1. Then the value of j_{max} would coincide with the degree of the polynomial. But why does the degree of the polynomial depend on the values of quantum numbers n and l?
 
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lonewolf219 said:
I think the solution to the radial Schrödinger equation includes a form of the Laguerre polynomials, the polynomial v(ρ). Does anyone know what this v(ρ) polynomial is called? The only information my book gives is: "The polynomial v(ρ) is a function well known to applied mathematicians."
They're known as associated Laguerre polynomials.

lonewolf219 said:
Also, I noticed that when solving for the coefficients of v(ρ), we used a quantity called j_{max}=n-l-1. Then the value of j_{max} would coincide with the degree of the polynomial. But why does the degree of the polynomial depend on the values of quantum numbers n and l?
It's the other way around, isn't it? The relationship states that the quantum number n depends on ℓ and jmax.
 
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Thanks Bill_K for the reply... I appreciate it!
 

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