What is the significance of the 1D wave function Ψ(x,t) in quantum mechanics?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on the significance of the one-dimensional wave function Ψ(x,t) in quantum mechanics, specifically regarding its normalization and expectation values. Participants express confusion about calculating the normalization constant A and integrating to find quantum-mechanical expectation values for position and momentum. There is a request for clarification on the normalization process, highlighting a lack of experience with similar functions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding these concepts for further progress in quantum mechanics. Overall, the thread illustrates the challenges faced by learners in grasping complex mathematical applications in quantum theory.
Cybercole
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Ψ(x,t)=A⋅exp(A|x|)⋅exp(−iωt)


Consider the one-dimensional, time-dependent wave function for infinite motion: (x,t) = Ae–a|x| e–it where A, a, and  are positive real constants. What are: (a) normalization constant A, (b) the quantum-mechanical expectation value of coordinate x, (c) the quantum-mechanical expectation value of x2, and (d) the quantum-mechanical expectation value of the square of momentum ^p2
 
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They look like they are straightforward to integrate... what is your problem exactly?
Do you not understand what a normalization constant is, or how to calculate it, or did you get stuck in the integration, or ... ?
 
I know how to normalize a funtion but i am getting stuck in the middle of it... we have never normalize somthing like this before all we have ever done was matrices, i am not very strong in this type of math
 
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Cybercole said:
I know how to normalize a funtion but i am getting stuck in the middle of it...
Please show your work, up to the part where you are stuck.
 
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