Quantum Mechanical Simple Harmonics Question

In summary, a harmonic oscillator system with a mass of 1g on a spring has a frequency of 1 Hz and a velocity of 10cm/s. The magnitude of the quantum number is calculated to be 7.6 x 10^27. The average spacing between zeros of an eigenstate with this quantum number represents the distance between two neighboring nodes of the wavefunction, where the probability of finding the particle is zero. The uncertainty principle does not apply to macroscopic bodies, so the quantum mechanical model can be ignored in this situation.
  • #1
Ed Quanta
297
0
So let us assume we have the following system. A harmonic oscillator consists of a mass 1g on a spring. Its frequency is 1 Hz and the masses passes through the equilibrium position with a velocity of 10cm/s.

I have already calculated that the magnitude of the quantum number (n = 7.6 x 10^27)

Now, what is meant by the average spacing between zeros of an eigenstate with such a quantum number? How would I calculate this, and what is this representing physically.

Thanks to all who have given this a look.
 
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  • #2
With the spacing between two zero's of an eigenstate they most probably mean the distance between two neighbouring nodes (points where the wavefunction is zero). That's where you have zero probabability of finding the particle.

By the way. Since you have a mass of 1 g (!), are you dealing with a system of billions and billions of particles??
How can you say it passes the equilibrium position with a certain velocity. That's a violation of Heisenbergs principle.
 
  • #3
I think because n is so great the quantum mechanical model approaches that of classical physics where Heisenberg's Uncertainty principle can be ignored?
 
  • #4
No,The Uncertainty Principle has nothing to do when speaking of bodies whose size and hence mass are macroscopical...The quantum number "n" can be as big as u like,the microscopic/macroscopic scale of the problem is the issue.You can't approach by quantum mechanical methods a problem involving macroscopical bodies,because the results give no realistic meaning...
 

FAQ: Quantum Mechanical Simple Harmonics Question

What is Quantum Mechanics?

Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels. It explains how particles interact with each other and with energy, and is essential for understanding the nature of matter and energy.

What is Simple Harmonic Motion in Quantum Mechanics?

Simple harmonic motion refers to the oscillating motion of a particle around an equilibrium point, where the force acting on the particle is directly proportional to its displacement from the equilibrium point. In quantum mechanics, this type of motion is described by the Schrödinger equation.

How is Simple Harmonic Motion related to Quantum Mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, the Schrödinger equation describes the motion of a particle in a potential energy well, which can be thought of as a simple harmonic oscillator. This equation predicts the probability of finding a particle at a certain position and time, and is used to understand the behavior of particles at the quantum level.

What is a Quantum Mechanical Simple Harmonic Oscillator?

A quantum mechanical simple harmonic oscillator is a system in which a particle is confined to a potential energy well and exhibits simple harmonic motion. It is often used as a model for understanding the behavior of atoms and molecules, and can also be applied to larger systems such as vibrating molecules in a solid material.

How is the Simple Harmonic Oscillator used in Quantum Mechanics calculations?

The simple harmonic oscillator is used in quantum mechanics calculations to determine the energy levels and wave functions of a particle in a potential energy well. This information can then be used to make predictions about the behavior of the particle, such as its probability of being found at a certain location or its average energy.

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