What Are the Correct Statements About a Quantum Harmonic Oscillator?

In summary, for a 1D QM harmonic oscillator, the discrete energy states are nhw and (n+0.5)hw, and the lowest energy state wave function is ~\exp^\frac{-\alpha^2\ x^2}{2}. The probability of finding the particle outside the classical limit is non-zero, making (d) also a correct statement. It is recommended to do the calculation to estimate this probability.
  • #1
neelakash
511
1

Homework Statement



For a 1D QM harmonic oscillator,

(a) the discrete energy states are nhw

(b) the discrete energy states are (n+0.5)hw

(c) the lowest energy state wave function is ~[tex]\exp^\frac{-\alpha^2\ x^2}{2}[/tex]

(d) the probabilty of finding the particle outside the classical limit is non-zero.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution



I think (b) and (c) are correct...by theory...

Should not (d) be also correct?--outside the classical limit=>inside quantum domain...
 
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  • #2
Yes, d is also correct. It is useful to do the calculation (one time in your life; and the sooner the better) to estimate the probability of finding the particle in its ground state outside the classical turning points.
 

FAQ: What Are the Correct Statements About a Quantum Harmonic Oscillator?

What is a harmonic oscillator problem?

A harmonic oscillator problem is a physics problem that involves finding the motion of a system that is subject to a restoring force proportional to the displacement from its equilibrium position. The most common example of this is a mass attached to a spring, where the force exerted by the spring is proportional to how far the mass is stretched or compressed from its resting position.

What is the equation for a harmonic oscillator?

The equation for a harmonic oscillator is F = -kx, where F is the restoring force, k is the spring constant, and x is the displacement from equilibrium. This can also be written as m(d^2x/dt^2) = -kx, where m is the mass of the object.

How do you solve a harmonic oscillator problem?

To solve a harmonic oscillator problem, you first need to determine the initial conditions, such as the initial displacement and velocity of the object. Then, you can use the equation F = -kx to set up a differential equation and solve for the position and velocity of the object as a function of time. This can be done analytically or numerically using a computer program.

What is the period of a harmonic oscillator?

The period of a harmonic oscillator is the time it takes for the object to complete one full oscillation, or one cycle. It is given by the equation T = 2π√(m/k), where m is the mass of the object and k is the spring constant. This means that the period is dependent on the mass and stiffness of the system.

What are some real-life examples of harmonic oscillators?

Some real-life examples of harmonic oscillators include a pendulum, a mass on a spring, a vibrating guitar string, and a swinging door. These systems all exhibit harmonic motion, meaning they follow the same equation and have a periodic motion. Harmonic oscillators are also commonly used in physics experiments to model more complex systems.

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