Re-arranging the Schrodinger equation

You need to be persistent and keep trying. Don't be discouraged by not getting it right away. Just keep at it and ask for help when you need it. Good luck!In summary, the conversation discusses the rearrangement of the Schrodinger equation and the manipulation of complex numbers within equations. The property that \frac{1}{i} = -i is mentioned and the correct form of the Schrodinger equation is provided. The importance of persistence and thorough studying is emphasized.
  • #1
vorcil
398
0
I just have a small question,

In my book it says that the schrodinger equation,

[tex]
i\hbar\frac{\partial\Psi}{\partial t} = \frac{\hbar^2}{2m}\frac{\partial^2\Psi}{\partial x^2} + V\Psi
[/tex]

rearranged is,

[tex]
\frac{\partial\Psi}{\partial t} = \frac{i\hbar}{2m}\frac{\partial\Psi ^2 psi}{\partial x^2} - \frac{i}{\hbar}V\Psi
[/tex]

how does the complex number, move over, and in the numerator? instead of the denominatior?

I can see how [tex] A\hbar = B\hbar ^2 becomes A = B \hbar [/tex]

but I don't understand how

[tex] A i = B + V\Psi becomes A = iB - i V\hbar [/tex]

could someone please explain to me the mathematical rules behind rearranging complex numbers in equations,

or give me some links that explain it, (in simple terms) please :P
 
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  • #2
[tex]\frac{1}{i}=-i[/tex]

This is one of the properties of imaginary numbers. I don't exactly recall a proof for this...hopefully someone else can answer your question in more detail.
 
  • #3
Do you know what I would search for If i wanted to understand how to manipulate i?

I tried the wikipedia log of complex numbers, but it is jungle of crap that is too hard to understand
tl;dr
 
  • #4
Matterwave said:
[tex]\frac{1}{i}=-i[/tex]

This is one of the properties of imaginary numbers. I don't exactly recall a proof for this...hopefully someone else can answer your question in more detail.
Like this?
[tex]\frac{1}{i} = \frac{1}{i}\frac{i}{i} = \frac{i}{i^2} = \frac{i}{-1} = -i[/tex]
 
  • #5
JaWiB said:
Like this?
[tex]\frac{1}{i} = \frac{1}{i}\frac{i}{i} = \frac{i}{i^2} = \frac{i}{-1} = -i[/tex]

JaWiB

how do i do this

[tex]
A i = B + V\Psi to A = iB - i V\Psi
[/tex]
 
  • #6
I don't think what you have is correct.
[tex]
i\hbar\frac{\partial\Psi}{\partial t} = \frac{\hbar^2}{2m}\frac{\partial^2\Psi}{\partial x^2} + V\Psi
[/tex]
If you multiply both sides by [tex]i/\hbar[/tex], you get
[tex]
-\frac{\partial\Psi}{\partial t} = i\frac{\hbar}{2m}\frac{\partial^2\Psi}{\partial x^2} + \frac{i}{\hbar}V\Psi
[/tex]
or
[tex]
\frac{\partial\Psi}{\partial t} = -i\frac{\hbar}{2m}\frac{\partial^2\Psi}{\partial x^2} - \frac{i}{\hbar}V\Psi
[/tex]
 
  • #7
mmmm well that's closer then to what I had,

thank you i'll ask my tutors tomorrow
 
  • #8
You have the Schrodinger equation wrong. It should be:

[tex]
i\hbar\frac{\partial\Psi}{\partial t} =- \frac{\hbar^2}{2m}\frac{\partial^2\Psi}{\partial x^2} + V\Psi
[/tex]
 
  • #9
Cyosis said:
You have the Schrodinger equation wrong. It should be:

[tex]
i\hbar\frac{\partial\Psi}{\partial t} =- \frac{\hbar^2}{2m}\frac{\partial^2\Psi}{\partial x^2} + V\Psi
[/tex]

so Jawib's way does work!??
 
  • #10
I need to take some math papers...
I'm not as good as the rest of the physics majors at mathematics,

I've only done 1 math paper and 5 physics ones

I didn't even think to multiply both sides by i/h, like Jawib said :(

study study study
 
  • #11
vorcil said:
I need to take some math papers...
I'm not as good as the rest of the physics majors at mathematics,

I've only done 1 math paper and 5 physics ones

I didn't even think to multiply both sides by i/h, like Jawib said :(

study study study

If you had kept at it, you would have got it eventually. You gave up. If you give up a lot that is a problem. Half-hearted studying won't get you anywhere.
 

FAQ: Re-arranging the Schrodinger equation

What is the Schrodinger equation and why is it important?

The Schrodinger equation is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics that describes the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels. It allows us to calculate the wave function of a particle and predict its behavior, making it a crucial tool for understanding the behavior of matter and energy.

Why would we need to rearrange the Schrodinger equation?

Rearranging the Schrodinger equation can help us solve for different variables or simplify the equation for a specific situation. It also allows us to apply the equation to different systems and scenarios.

How do you rearrange the Schrodinger equation?

To rearrange the Schrodinger equation, you need to use algebraic manipulation and mathematical techniques such as separation of variables, substitution, or integration. The goal is to isolate the desired variable on one side of the equation and solve for it.

What are some common applications of rearranging the Schrodinger equation?

Rearranging the Schrodinger equation is commonly used in solving problems related to quantum mechanics, such as calculating the energy levels of atoms, predicting the behavior of particles in a potential well, or describing the motion of a particle in an electric or magnetic field.

Are there any limitations or assumptions when rearranging the Schrodinger equation?

Yes, there are some limitations and assumptions when rearranging the Schrodinger equation. The equation is based on the principles of quantum mechanics, so it may not accurately describe macroscopic systems. It also assumes that the particle is in a stationary state and that the potential is time-independent.

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