How to Find the Potential in Schrödinger's Equation?

  • Thread starter gfd43tg
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Potential
In summary, the conversation discusses finding the wave function and solving the Schrödinger equation. The first part involves isolating the constant A and the second part involves finding the derivatives with respect to x and t. The conversation also mentions applying certain criteria to the wave function and finding the probability of finding the particle in a specific range. Lastly, there is a suggestion to check the derivatives and to divide out certain factors in the equation.
  • #1
gfd43tg
Gold Member
950
50

Homework Statement


upload_2015-2-10_15-44-39.png


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution



(a) Well, I just isolate A, so
$$A = \Psi (x,t) e^{a[(mx^{2}/ \hbar) + it]}$$

I am not sure if this is what is meant, seems too obvious.

(b) So I know the Schrödinger equation can be written
$$ i \hbar \frac {\partial \Psi}{ \partial t} = \Big [ - \frac {\hbar}{2m} \frac {\partial^{2}}{\partial x^{2}} + V \Big ] \Psi $$

So I take the given wave function,
$$\Psi = Ae^{-a[\frac {mx^{2}}{\hbar} + it]}$$

And find the derivatives with respect to x and t,

$$ \frac {\partial \Psi}{\partial t} = -A[a(\frac {mx^{2}}{\hbar}) + i]e^{-a[\frac {mx^{2}}{\hbar} + it]} $$
$$ \frac {\partial \Psi}{\partial x} = -A[a(\frac {2mx}{\hbar}) + it]e^{-a[\frac {mx^{2}}{\hbar} + it]} $$
$$ \frac {\partial^{2} \Psi}{\partial x^{2}} = A[a^{2}(\frac {4m^{2}x^{2}}{\hbar^{2}}) + i^{2}t^{2}]e^{-a[\frac {mx^{2}}{\hbar} + it]} $$

And I substitute back into the SE,
$$ i \hbar(-A[a(\frac {mx^{2}}{\hbar}) + i]e^{-a[\frac {mx^{2}}{\hbar} + it]}) = - \frac {\hbar^{2}}{2m} \Big( A[a^{2}(\frac {4m^{2}x^{2}}{\hbar^{2}}) + i^{2}t^{2}]e^{-a[\frac {mx^{2}}{\hbar} + it]} \Big ) + V( Ae^{-a[\frac {mx^{2}}{\hbar} + it]}) $$

From here I can isolate V
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
(a) No, this is not what is intended. You do not know the wave function up to the constant A so you obviously cannot have an expression for A involving the wave function. You need to apply some criteria that the wave function should fulfil. What such criteria do you know?

(b) Your post seems incomplete as it ends "So I". What did you intend to say?
 
  • #3
Overall: Check your derivatives.

Re: Finding A. Remember what the wave function means. When you take psi* times psi, you get the probability of finding the particle in the range dx. So, what is the total probability of finding the particle somewhere? And so, how can you determine A?

For the rest: Can you see any factors to divide out of your last equation?
 
  • #4
Also, the derivatives are not done correctly. Recheck what you have in the argument of the exponential.
 

FAQ: How to Find the Potential in Schrödinger's Equation?

What is the purpose of finding potential to satisfy SE?

The purpose of finding potential to satisfy SE is to identify and evaluate potential solutions or strategies that can effectively address a specific problem or need in the field of software engineering. This process helps in making informed decisions and choosing the best option for satisfying the requirements of a project or system.

What are the steps involved in finding potential to satisfy SE?

The steps involved in finding potential to satisfy SE may vary, but generally include problem identification, research and analysis, idea generation, evaluation and selection, and implementation. These steps can be repeated multiple times to refine and improve the potential solutions.

What factors should be considered when evaluating potential solutions for SE?

When evaluating potential solutions for SE, factors such as feasibility, cost, time, resources, scalability, and compatibility should be considered. It is also important to consider the specific requirements and goals of the project or system, as well as the potential risks and benefits of each solution.

How can brainstorming help in finding potential to satisfy SE?

Brainstorming is a useful technique for generating ideas and solutions to a problem. It can help in finding potential to satisfy SE by encouraging creativity, promoting collaboration and open-mindedness, and exploring a wide range of options. Brainstorming can also help in identifying potential flaws or limitations of a solution.

What are some challenges in finding potential to satisfy SE?

Some challenges in finding potential to satisfy SE may include limited resources, time constraints, conflicting requirements, technical complexities, and lack of clear criteria for evaluation. Additionally, it can be difficult to anticipate and account for all possible variables and scenarios that may impact the success of a potential solution.

Back
Top