A particle measured in a too high potential

In summary, the conversation discussed quantum physics and the concept of particles being sent into a potential well or barrier with a certain energy value. It was mentioned that the probability of finding the particles is non-zero in areas where the potential is higher, which is a well-known fact. However, what happens in a measurement is not clear. The speaker posed a scenario where sensors were placed in the barrier and particles with lower energy were sent. It was asked what would happen to the wave function if the particle was detected inside the barrier. Similarly, the concept of bound states in a well was also discussed, and the question was raised about the effects of measuring the position of the particle outside the well. It was suggested that in both cases, the particle would
  • #1
DarkBabylon
72
10
Hello, we were introduced to qunatum physics this semester. We were tackling the problem of particles sent with a certain value of energy into a potential well as well as a barrier.

The not so very new thing to me was that the probability is non zero in places where the potential is higher. In fact it is one of the things you hear about around the internet already. What is not at all obvious is what happens in a measurement.

Suppose I would put sensors in the barrier, and send particles with lower energy than the barrier. If I were to measure the position of the particle and find it INSIDE the barrier with the energy still being lower than the barrier, what would happen to its wave function?

Likewise in a well at a bound state. If I measured its position to be outside of the well, and the energy still would be lower than the potential outside, would it still be bound?
 
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  • #2
If you managed to detect inside the range of the barrier it would actually be over the barrier so to speak. It would have a higher energy, possibly by stealing energy from the measuring equipment.
 

FAQ: A particle measured in a too high potential

What is a "particle measured in a too high potential"?

A particle measured in a too high potential refers to a situation in which a particle's energy is measured in a potential that is higher than its actual energy level. This can happen when the measurement device or technique is not precise enough or when there are external factors affecting the measurement.

How does measuring a particle in a too high potential affect the results of an experiment?

Measuring a particle in a too high potential can lead to inaccurate results in an experiment. This is because the measured energy level of the particle does not reflect its true state, which can affect the interpretation of the data and the conclusions drawn from the experiment.

What are the potential sources of error in measuring a particle in a too high potential?

There can be several potential sources of error when measuring a particle in a too high potential. These can include technical limitations of the measurement device, the presence of external electric or magnetic fields, and the uncertainty principle in quantum mechanics.

How can scientists avoid measuring a particle in a too high potential?

To avoid measuring a particle in a too high potential, scientists can use more precise measurement techniques and equipment, minimize the effects of external factors, and take into account the uncertainty principle when interpreting their results.

What are the implications of measuring a particle in a too high potential in terms of scientific research?

The implications of measuring a particle in a too high potential can be significant in scientific research. It can lead to incorrect conclusions and hinder the progress of understanding and studying particles and their behavior. It is important for scientists to be aware of this possibility and take steps to minimize potential errors in their measurements.

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