Angular frequency of a matter patter

In summary, the conversation discusses the de Broglie relations and the angular frequency (\omega) in the equation E = \hbar * \omega. The question is whether the angular frequency is a constant or can it change in different gravitational fields, similar to the gravitational redshift observed in photons. The conversation also considers how a varying electromagnetic field affects the wavenumber/angular frequency of a spin-1/2 particle's probability amplitude distribution within a volume of space-time. The conversation also mentions the example of tunneling through a square potential barrier and whether the wave vector changes in different regions.
  • #1
redtree
292
13
By the de Broglie relations: E = [tex]\hbar * \omega[/tex]

Is the angular frequency ([tex]\omega[/tex]) in this equation an average or is it a constant? In other words, does the angular frequency (or the wavenumber, k) for a matter particle change, for instance, in differing gravitational fields, such as we see for a photon with gravitational redshift?
 
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  • #2
I can restate the question in a related way.

Assume a spin-1/2 particle is described by a probability amplitude function ([tex]\Psi[/tex]) with angular frequency ([tex]\omega[/tex]) or wavenumber (k). The probability amplitude distribution for that particle exists within a volume of space-time. Assume that within that volume of space-time, there is an electromagnetic field that varies significantly in strength over that volume. How does that varying electromagnetic field affect the wavenumber/angular frequency of the particle's probability amplitude distribution?
 
  • #3
Er... I have almost no clue on what you're getting at here.

Let's look at a less "exotic" example, shall we? Something that every single physics undergraduate does - tunneling through a square potential barrier. Look at the wave vector as it goes through the various regions. Does it change?

Zz.
 

Related to Angular frequency of a matter patter

1. What is the definition of angular frequency of a matter pattern?

The angular frequency of a matter pattern refers to the rate at which the matter pattern repeats itself in one full rotation or cycle. It is usually measured in radians per second.

2. How is angular frequency related to the wavelength and speed of a matter pattern?

Angular frequency is directly proportional to the speed of a matter pattern and inversely proportional to the wavelength. This means that as the speed of the matter pattern increases, the angular frequency also increases, and as the wavelength decreases, the angular frequency increases.

3. Can angular frequency be negative?

Yes, angular frequency can be negative. This occurs when the matter pattern is rotating or oscillating in a clockwise direction as opposed to counterclockwise. However, the magnitude of the negative angular frequency is the same as the positive angular frequency, but with opposite direction.

4. How does angular frequency affect the energy of a matter pattern?

The higher the angular frequency of a matter pattern, the higher its energy. This is because higher angular frequency means the matter pattern is rotating or oscillating at a faster rate, which requires more energy.

5. Can angular frequency change over time?

Yes, the angular frequency of a matter pattern can change over time. This can occur due to external factors such as changing speed or direction of rotation, or internal factors such as changes in the mass or composition of the matter pattern.

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