The Wave Equation: Schrodinger, Physical Interpretation, Scope & Limitations

In summary, the Schrodinger wave equation is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics used to describe the behavior of a quantum system over time. It represents the probability of finding a particle in a particular location at a given time and has a wide scope, being applied to various physical phenomena. However, it has limitations such as not taking into account relativity and only predicting the probability of finding a particle in a certain state. It is related to other fundamental equations in physics, such as the Heisenberg uncertainty principle and the time-dependent Schrodinger equation.
  • #1
DeG
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How did Schrodinger derive the wave equation? Does it have a physical interpretation? And, what are its scope of applicability and limitations?
 
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  • #2
DeG said:
How did Schrodinger derive the wave equation? Does it have a physical interpretation? And, what are its scope of applicability and limitations?

For a question of this generality and scope, you want a web-page like this:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schr%C3%B6dinger_equation"
 
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FAQ: The Wave Equation: Schrodinger, Physical Interpretation, Scope & Limitations

What is the Schrodinger wave equation?

The Schrodinger wave equation is a mathematical formula used in quantum mechanics to describe the behavior of a quantum system over time. It is a fundamental equation in the field and is used to calculate the probability of finding a particle in a particular location at a given time.

How is the Schrodinger wave equation interpreted physically?

The Schrodinger wave equation is interpreted physically as a description of the wave-like behavior of a quantum particle. It represents the probability amplitude of the particle at a given location and time, rather than the actual position of the particle. This is in contrast to classical physics, where the position and momentum of a particle can be known with certainty.

What is the scope of the Schrodinger wave equation?

The Schrodinger wave equation has a wide scope and is used to describe the behavior of all quantum systems, from subatomic particles to atoms and molecules. It has been successfully applied to various physical phenomena, such as the behavior of electrons in atoms, the properties of solids, and the interactions of particles in nuclear reactions.

What are the limitations of the Schrodinger wave equation?

The Schrodinger wave equation has some limitations, one of which is that it does not take into account the effects of relativity. It also cannot be used to accurately describe systems with multiple particles or interactions that involve high energies. Additionally, it cannot predict the exact position and momentum of a particle, only the probability of finding it in a particular state.

How does the Schrodinger wave equation relate to other fundamental equations in physics?

The Schrodinger wave equation is one of the fundamental equations in quantum mechanics, along with the Heisenberg uncertainty principle and the Pauli exclusion principle. It also relates to other equations in physics, such as the classical wave equation and the time-dependent Schrodinger equation, which is used to describe the evolution of a quantum system over time.

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