How to Find Psi(x,t) in an Infinite Potential Well?

In summary, the problem involves a particle of mass m in a one-dimensional infinite potential well with walls 0<=x<=a. The normalized wave function at t=0 is given by \psi(x,t=0)=A[1+Cos(\frac{\pi x}{a})]Sin(\frac{2 \pi x}{a}). To find \psi(x,t), we can use the formula \psi(x,t)=\sum C_{n} e^{\frac{-iE_{n}t}{\hbar}}\phi_{n}(x), where C_{n}=\int^{a}_{0}\phi_{n}(x)\psi(x)dx and \phi_{n}(x) is the eigen
  • #1
natugnaro
64
1

Homework Statement


Hi,
Particle of mass m is found in one-dimensional infinite potential well with walls 0<=x<=a.
In t=0 the normalized wave function is:
[tex]\psi(x,t=0)=A[1+Cos(\frac{\pi x}{a})]Sin(\frac{2 \pi x}{a})[/tex]

find psi(x,t)

Homework Equations



?

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\psi(x,t)=\sum C_{n} e^{\frac{-iE_{n}t}{\hbar}}\phi_{n}(x)[/tex]

[tex]C_{n}=\int^{a}_{0}\phi_{n}(x)\psi(x)dx[/tex]

[tex]C_{n}=\int^{a}_{0}Sin(\frac{n \pi x}{a})A[1+Cos(\frac{\pi x}{a})]Sin(\frac{2 \pi x}{a})dx[/tex]


I could do the integral and find Cn coefficients, but it takes time.
Is there an easier way for findin psi(x,t) ?
 
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  • #2
natugnaro said:

Homework Statement


Hi,
Particle of mass m is found in one-dimensional infinite potential well with walls 0<=x<=a.
In t=0 the normalized wave function is:
[tex]\psi(x,t=0)=A[1+Cos(\frac{\pi x}{a})]Sin(\frac{2 \pi x}{a})[/tex]

find psi(x,t)

Homework Equations



?

The Attempt at a Solution



[tex]\psi(x,t)=\sum C_{n} e^{\frac{-iE_{n}t}{\hbar}}\phi_{n}(x)[/tex]

[tex]C_{n}=\int^{a}_{0}\phi_{n}(x)\psi(x)dx[/tex]

[tex]C_{n}=\int^{a}_{0}Sin(\frac{n \pi x}{a})A[1+Cos(\frac{\pi x}{a})]Sin(\frac{2 \pi x}{a})dx[/tex]


I could do the integral and find Cn coefficients, but it takes time.
Is there an easier way for findin psi(x,t) ?

I don't think so, perhaps if you use tables of standard integrals or maple / mathematica.
 
  • #3
Ok, thanks.
Just wanted to make shure I'm not missing something.
 
  • #4
natugnaro said:
Ok, thanks.
Just wanted to make shure I'm not missing something.


there is standard integrals for ortonogal cos and sin integrals, if you want more hints.
 

FAQ: How to Find Psi(x,t) in an Infinite Potential Well?

What is the "Infinite Potential Well Problem"?

The Infinite Potential Well Problem is a simplified model used in quantum mechanics to describe the behavior of a particle confined within a finite space. It assumes that the particle is trapped within an infinitely high potential well, meaning that it cannot escape from the boundaries of the well.

How is the "Infinite Potential Well Problem" solved?

The solution to the Infinite Potential Well Problem involves using the Schrödinger equation, which describes the wave function of the particle. By solving this equation, the allowed energy levels and corresponding wave functions can be determined for the particle within the potential well.

What are the properties of the energy levels in the "Infinite Potential Well Problem"?

The energy levels in the Infinite Potential Well Problem are quantized, meaning they can only take on discrete values. This is due to the confinement of the particle within the potential well. The energy levels also increase in a step-like manner, with each successive level having a higher energy than the previous one.

How does the width of the potential well affect the energy levels in the "Infinite Potential Well Problem"?

The width of the potential well directly affects the energy levels in the Infinite Potential Well Problem. A wider well will have more allowed energy levels, while a narrower well will have fewer allowed energy levels. Additionally, the energy levels will be closer together in a wider well and further apart in a narrower well.

What are the implications of the "Infinite Potential Well Problem" in quantum mechanics?

The Infinite Potential Well Problem serves as a basic model for understanding the behavior of particles in confined spaces. It also highlights the quantized nature of energy in quantum mechanics and the importance of boundary conditions in determining the behavior of particles. It has applications in various fields, such as solid state physics and nanotechnology.

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