Bound states for a Spherically Symmetric Schrodinger equation

In summary, the particle moves in a potential energy field. It has three eigenfunctions, each with a different angular dependence. The solutions to the wavefunction are found when the particle is in a bound state with a specific energy.
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stunner5000pt
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Homework Statement


A particle of mass m moves in three dimensions in a potential energy field
V(r) = -V0 r< R
0 if r> R

where r is the distance from the origin. Its eigenfunctions psi(r) are governed by

[tex] \frac{\hbar^2}{2m} \nabla^2 \psi + V(r) \psi = E \psi [/tex]
ALL in spherical coords.

Consider a spherically symmertic eigenfunction with no angular dependence of the form

[tex] \psi(r) = \frac{u(r)}{r} [/tex]

Solve for u(r) in teh regions r< R and r > R and yb imposiing boundary conditions, find the eigenfunction of a bound state with energy [itex] E = \hbar^2 \alpha^2 / 2m [/itex]

Show taht there is one bound state of this kind if the depth of the weel obeys
[tex] \frac{\hbar^2 \pi^2}{8mR^2} < V_{0} < \frac{9\hbar^2 \pi^2}{8 mR^2} [/tex]

Homework Equations


Ok i found te solution of the wavefunction to be
[tex] C \sin (k_{0}r) /r [/tex] if r < R
[tex] A e^{\alpha r}/ r [/tex] if r > R
The solutions are such because the solutions are found a bound state that is E <= V0. Also the solutions are spherically symmetric.

where [tex] k_{0} = \sqrt{\frac{2m}{\hbar^2} (V_{0} + E)} [/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution


Furthermore i found that
[tex] k_{0} \cot k_{0} R = -\alpha [/tex]
[tex] k_{0}^2 + \alpha^2 = \frac{2m}{\hbar^2} V_{0} [/tex]

How would i prove the condition for V0?? Would i do this graphically assuming different values for R?

Thanks for your help!
 
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Related to Bound states for a Spherically Symmetric Schrodinger equation

1. What is a bound state in the context of a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation?

A bound state is a state in which a particle is confined to a finite region of space, unlike an unbound state where the particle can move freely. In the context of a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation, a bound state refers to a state where the particle is confined to a specific potential well and cannot escape from it.

2. How does the potential energy affect the bound states in a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation?

The potential energy in a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation determines the shape and depth of the potential well in which the particle is confined. The bound states are determined by the solutions of the Schrodinger equation in this potential well, with the lowest energy states being the most tightly bound.

3. Can a particle have multiple bound states in a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation?

Yes, a particle can have multiple bound states in a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation. The number of bound states depends on the shape and depth of the potential well, with deeper and wider wells allowing for more bound states.

4. How do the energy levels of bound states in a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation compare to those in an unbound state?

The energy levels of bound states in a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation are typically lower than those in an unbound state. This is because the particle is confined to a specific region and cannot access the higher energy states that are available in an unbound state.

5. What is the significance of bound states in a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation?

Bound states in a spherically symmetric Schrodinger equation have important implications in understanding the behavior of particles in various physical systems. They can provide insights into the stability and energy levels of atoms, molecules, and other quantum systems. Additionally, the properties of bound states can also have practical applications in fields such as materials science and quantum computing.

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