Infinite Square Well Frequency of Oscillation

In summary, the problem involves finding the frequency of oscillation for a particle in an infinite square well potential with an initial wave-function composed of the ground and first excited state wavefunctions. The expected value for position, <x>, was calculated using the wavefunctions and it was determined that the time factors should not be cancelled. The time dependence of <x> can be used to deduce the oscillation frequency.
  • #1
Blitzmeister
3
0

Homework Statement


Consider a particle in an infinite square well potential that has the initial wave-function:
Ψ(x,0) = (1/√2) [Ψ_1(x) + Ψ_2(x)]

where Ψ_1(x) and Ψ_2(x) are the ground and first excited state wavefunctions. We notice that <x> oscillates in time. FIND the frequency of oscillation

Homework Equations


So,
<x> = expected value integral over 0 to L
Ψ_1(x) = √(2/L) sin(πx/L)e^(-iE/ћt)
Ψ_2(x) = √(2/L) sin(2πx/L)e^(-iE/ћt)

The Attempt at a Solution


I solved:
<x> = [(1/2)-(16/(9π^2))]L
(Not only did I do this by hand but I also checked it against mathematica so this is definitely not wrong)
Real question is, WHAT is the frequency of oscillation actually? I have NO idea what the question is asking.
 
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  • #2
What happened to the exponential time factors. Hint: E is not the same in Ψ_1 and Ψ_2.
 
  • #3
Ah so they are different. Okay so what I did, which I guess is wrong was cancel the two exponential time factors since they were e^(-iEt/hbar) and e^(-iEt/hbar)
In that case then still, what exactly is the oscillating frequency? omega?
 
Last edited:
  • #4
Right, the time factors are different and so they won't cancel. You should recalculate <x>. You will get a time dependence from which you can deduce the oscillation frequency.
 

Related to Infinite Square Well Frequency of Oscillation

1. What is the concept of "Infinite Square Well Frequency of Oscillation"?

The concept of "Infinite Square Well Frequency of Oscillation" is a theoretical model used in quantum mechanics to describe the behavior of a particle inside a square well potential. The particle is assumed to have infinite potential energy outside the well and zero potential energy inside the well, creating a square-shaped potential well. The frequency of oscillation refers to the rate at which the particle moves back and forth within the well.

2. How is the frequency of oscillation calculated in the Infinite Square Well model?

The frequency of oscillation in the Infinite Square Well model is calculated using the equation: f = (n^2 * h^2) / (8m * L^2), where n is the quantum number, h is the Planck's constant, m is the mass of the particle, and L is the length of the well. This equation shows that the frequency of oscillation is directly proportional to the quantum number and inversely proportional to the mass and the length of the well.

3. What is the significance of the quantum number in the Infinite Square Well model?

The quantum number, represented by n, is a fundamental property of a particle in quantum mechanics. In the context of the Infinite Square Well model, the quantum number determines the energy and frequency of oscillation of the particle. It also determines the number of nodes or points of zero amplitude within the well.

4. Can the frequency of oscillation be changed in the Infinite Square Well model?

Yes, the frequency of oscillation can be changed in the Infinite Square Well model by altering the values of the factors in the equation. For example, increasing the quantum number or decreasing the mass or length of the well will result in a higher frequency of oscillation. However, the frequency of oscillation is always quantized, meaning it can only take on certain discrete values determined by the quantum number.

5. What real-life applications does the Infinite Square Well model have?

The Infinite Square Well model is primarily a theoretical concept used in quantum mechanics. However, it has been applied in various fields such as solid-state physics, atomic physics, and condensed matter physics to study the behavior of electrons and other particles in confined spaces. It also helps in understanding the energy levels and properties of quantum dots, which have potential applications in quantum computing and nanotechnology.

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