Quantum Mechanics Complex Wave Question

In summary, the conversation discusses a complex wave with a given wave function and asks to calculate the wavelength, phase velocity, and direction of motion. The equations for phase velocity and wavelength are provided, and partial derivatives may be used to solve for the phase velocity. The conversation also includes a vector representation of the wave function.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



Consider the complex wave of amplitude;

Psi(x,y,t) = exp[i(kxCosA + kySinA - wt)]

Calculate the wavelength, phase velocity v, and direction of motion of this wave.


Homework Equations



Phase vel = wave length/ period or w/k


The Attempt at a Solution



My problem here is that this is the first wave function that I've dealt with that propogates through x, y and time. I don't know how to find the wavelength of a wave when given it's wave function. I can find the probability of it being in a certain region, or it's average position. I guess since I'm given an x, y, and time term that I'll be doing partial derivatives, especially for the phase velocity section, but my biggest problem here is not being able to even start off the problem.
 
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  • #2
[tex]\vec{r}=\left(\begin{array}{c} x \\y\end{array}\right)[/tex]

[tex]\vec{k}=k \left(\begin{array}{c} \cos A \\ \sin A \end{array}\right)[/tex]

(note that [tex] \| \vec{k} \| = k[/tex] )

[tex] \Psi (x,y,t)=\exp \left(k x \cos A + k y \sin A - \omega t \right) \Leftrightarrow \Psi(\vec{r},t)=\exp \left(\vec{k}.\vec{r} - \omega t \right)[/tex]

We still have:

[tex]\lambda = \frac{2\pi}{k}[/tex]

and

[tex]v = \frac{\omega}{\lambda}[/tex]
 

FAQ: Quantum Mechanics Complex Wave Question

What is quantum mechanics?

Quantum mechanics is a branch of physics that studies the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic level. It explains how particles and systems behave and interact with each other through principles such as wave-particle duality, quantum superposition, and entanglement.

What does "complex wave" mean in quantum mechanics?

In quantum mechanics, a complex wave refers to the mathematical description of a particle's wave-like behavior. This wave is described by a mathematical function known as the wave function, which contains both real and imaginary components.

How does quantum mechanics explain the behavior of particles?

Quantum mechanics explains the behavior of particles through the principles of wave-particle duality and superposition. This means that particles can behave as both waves and particles, and can exist in multiple states simultaneously. The wave function of a particle describes the probability of finding the particle in a certain state.

What is the role of uncertainty in quantum mechanics?

Uncertainty is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics, known as the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. This principle states that it is impossible to simultaneously know the exact position and momentum of a particle. The more precisely we know one property, the less precisely we can know the other.

How does quantum mechanics relate to real-world applications?

Quantum mechanics has a wide range of real-world applications, from electronics and computing to medicine and cryptography. For example, the principles of superposition and entanglement are used in quantum computing to perform complex calculations much faster than classical computers. Quantum mechanics also plays a crucial role in understanding and developing new technologies, such as quantum sensors and quantum communication systems.

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