Why energy level of one dimension problem is descrete?

In summary, the theorem in Chapter 4 of Zettili's book on quantum mechanics states that in a one-dimensional problem, the energy levels of a bound state system are discrete and not degenerate. While there are exceptions, such as a symmetric potential with an infinitely high barrier, in general, the theory of differential equations can be used to show that there can be at most two degenerate bound states. In the case of regular potentials, the Wronskian can be used to demonstrate that only one of the two solutions to the Schroedinger equation can be a bound state, while the other will not be in the Hilbert space.
  • #1
sadegh4137
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in the book of quantum mechanics concept and application by Zettili, chapter 4 write a theorem, that is:

in one dimensional problem the energy level of a bound state system are discrete and not degenerate.

i can not prove this theorem.

can you help me to do this!
 
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  • #2
First there are exceptions, e.g. when you have a symmetric potential with an infinitely high barrier.
In that case you can find two degenerate bound states.
Generally, you can refrain to the theory of differential equations.
For any energy the Schroedinger equation, which is a differential equation of second order, has two solutions (which may not be normalizable), so there can be at most two degenerate bound states.
In the case of regular (not infinite) potentials, fiddling around with the Wronskian, you can show that at most one of the two solutions can be a bound state, the other solution will diverge and not be in the Hilbert space.
 
  • #3
i can't understand your answer!

we always find two solution for Schrodinger equation.
for example well potential has two answer and the others!

please explain it for me!
 

1. What is meant by "energy level of one dimension problem"?

The energy level of a one dimension problem refers to the amount of energy that a particle has in a one-dimensional system. This energy is usually quantized, meaning that it can only have certain discrete values.

2. Why is the energy level of a one dimension problem discrete?

The energy level is discrete because of the nature of one-dimensional systems. In a one-dimensional system, the particle can only move along a single axis, resulting in limited degrees of freedom. This results in quantized energy levels that correspond to the allowed energy states.

3. How is the energy level of a one dimension problem calculated?

The energy level of a one dimension problem is calculated using the Schrödinger equation, which takes into account the potential energy of the system and the mass of the particle. The solutions to this equation give the discrete energy levels of the system.

4. What are the implications of having discrete energy levels in a one dimension problem?

The discrete energy levels in a one dimension problem have important implications in understanding the behavior of particles in one-dimensional systems. These energy levels determine the allowed energy states and transitions between them, which can have significant consequences for the properties and behavior of the system.

5. Can the energy level of a one dimension problem ever be continuous?

No, the energy level of a one dimension problem is always discrete due to the nature of one-dimensional systems. In order for energy levels to be continuous, the particle would need to have an infinite number of degrees of freedom, which is not possible in a one-dimensional system.

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