Maximizing Localization in Adding Multiple Plane Waves

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around difficulties in adding multiple plane waves for a quantum mechanics assignment. The user seeks guidance on how to apply the provided equation y(x) = Σ^n _i=1 Ai sin(ki X) effectively. They express frustration after extensive research and emphasize that they have already resolved the issue of choosing amplitudes and wave numbers for localization. The main challenge lies in the practical application of adding the plane waves. Assistance is requested to clarify the addition process for multiple plane waves.
lilipoli
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To whom it may concern,

I am having issues with a given assignment in my quantum mechanics class. The instructions listed below are all I have to go on since the prof. is not available for discussion and I have searched through at least 15 articles regarding plane waves and a dozen textbooks and still come up empty on how to definitively add multiple plane waves. I wouldn't be posting on a forum, if I were not to try everything else beforehand myself.
Any help is greatly appreciated and I apologize for my bad English.-Write a program for adding two or more plane waves [equation: y(x) = Σ^n _i=1 Ai sin(ki X) ]
-How to choose amplitudes Ai and wave numbers ki for any given n so that the wave packet is as localized as possible?
 

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What part are you having trouble with?
 
The first point of the assignment (addition of multiple plane waves). The second I have figured out already :)
 
They give you the equation. Just pick your amplitudes A and wave vectors k and evaluate the equation at positions x.
 
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