The probability functional description of a wave

In summary, the conversation discusses the classical and quantum domains of physics and how the equation for a wave, y = a exp(-iw(t-x/v)), can be derived using Newton's laws and energy conservation principles. However, in the quantum domain, the equation is written as psi(x) = a exp(-iw(t-x/v)), which describes the probability function for finding particles such as photons and electrons. The conversation also touches on the challenges and adjustments needed when transitioning from classical to quantum physics. The participants also suggest some resources for further study in quantum mechanics.
  • #1
peeyush_ali
86
0
it could be by the power of Newton's laws and energy conservation principles, one can sort out the equation of a wave classically...
y=a exp(-iw(t-x/v) ) ; ----1.
in the quantum domains where classical situations are ruled out, how is it apt to say or on which basis can we say that,

psi(x)=a exp(-iw(t-x/v)) ;-------2.

psi(x) is the probability function of finding umm may be an electron..

PS: what all i want is... Newton's laws n energy cons. principles concludes eqn 1.

but how passionately can 2. be justified!

thanks in advance..
 
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  • #2
I can't decipher what you're asking / talking about.
 
  • #3
zhermes said:
I can't decipher what you're asking / talking about.

lol... i was just trying to know that "how mysteriously" can the probability function
psi(x) = a exp(-iw(t-x/v) ) (all symbols have their usual meanings)
be written , which describes the statistical description of particles such as photons, electrons, etc., as a function of time, position etc.,

while , y (displacement of a particle) = a exp(-iw(t-x/v)) can be derived (classically) using the Newton's laws and principle of conservation of energy..
 
  • #4
are u talking about QM complications? I mean we have the correspondance principle but when we enter QM we need to adjust, is that what ur saying?
 
  • #5
y.moghadamnia said:
are u talking about QM complications? I mean we have the correspondance principle but when we enter QM we need to adjust, is that what ur saying?

yes...! why do we need to "adjust"... what is the law which could justifies this "adjustment" we do? it cant' be just like that simply right!
 
  • #6
well, I am not so sure about ur question but there is no certain law to tell us how exactly we adjust in QM or such, while moving from classical physics.we need to work with eyes wide open and we need to get it right, in QM so many things are not correct according to the physics principles. but we use them because they give us the right results, that we gain from experience.
 
  • #7
y.moghadamnia said:
well, I am not so sure about ur question but there is no certain law to tell us how exactly we adjust in QM or such, while moving from classical physics.we need to work with eyes wide open and we need to get it right, in QM so many things are not correct according to the physics principles. but we use them because they give us the right results, that we gain from experience.

thanks alot! atleast I am less depressed ...i just begin my study of qm...
 
  • #8
why would u be depressed at all? physics is about failing more and winning less, all sciences are, and what we truly do is never quit. good luck!
 
  • #9
:) true! ..
can u suggest me some book of conceptual problems on QM to improve skill and also understanding in QM..?
thanks in advance
 
  • #10
well, yeah, of course, my favorite textbook is QM by shankar, its a great one but doesn't have many problems.u can also use books by Zettili, byron and shaums problems.
u can go to www.library.nu[/URL] and after registration u can search all the QM books and also download 'em.
good luck!
 
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FAQ: The probability functional description of a wave

What is the probability functional description of a wave?

The probability functional description of a wave is a mathematical framework used to describe the behavior of a quantum mechanical system. It is based on the wavefunction, which represents the probability amplitude of a particle being in a certain state or location. The probability of finding the particle in a specific state is then calculated by squaring the absolute value of the wavefunction.

How is the probability functional description different from classical probability?

The probability functional description is different from classical probability in that it deals with the behavior of particles at the quantum level, which can exhibit properties of both waves and particles. In classical probability, the outcome of an event is determined by the laws of classical mechanics. In the quantum realm, however, particles can exist in multiple states at the same time, making their behavior unpredictable and described by probabilities.

What is the significance of the wavefunction in the probability functional description?

The wavefunction is a crucial element in the probability functional description as it represents the state of a quantum system. It contains all the information about the possible states and locations of a particle, and by applying mathematical operations to the wavefunction, we can determine the probabilities of finding the particle in a particular state or location.

Can the probability functional description be applied to all quantum systems?

Yes, the probability functional description can be applied to all quantum systems, regardless of their complexity. It is a fundamental part of quantum mechanics and has been successfully used to describe the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic levels. However, for more complex systems, the calculations can become increasingly challenging, and approximations may need to be made.

How does the probability functional description relate to the uncertainty principle?

The probability functional description is closely related to the uncertainty principle, which states that it is impossible to know both the exact position and momentum of a particle simultaneously. In the probability functional description, this uncertainty is reflected in the wavefunction, which describes the probability of finding a particle in a particular location. The more precisely we know the position of a particle, the less certain we are about its momentum, and vice versa.

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