Wave packet vs relative probability

In summary, the Schrodinger's equation for a free particle gives a solution that does not meet the normalization requirement. According to Bransden-Joachain's text, there are two ways to address this issue: superposing and forming localized wave packets, or giving up the concept of absolute probabilities and interpreting the wave function as relative probabilities. The first solution is preferred because it aligns with the classical concept of a localized particle and applies to more physical situations.
  • #1
xboy
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For a free particle,the one dimensional Schrodinger's equation gives a solution of the form Ae^i(kx - wt).This solution does not meet the normalisation requirement.According to Bransden-Joachain's texr,there are 2 ways out of this difficulty.One is to superpose and form localised wave packets.The other is to
"give up the concept of absolute probabilities when dealing with wave functions such as (above) which are not square integrable.Instead |psi(r,t)|^2dr is interpreted as the relative probability of finding the electron at time t in a volume element dr centred around r,so that the ratio |psi(r1,t)|^2 / |psi(r2,t)|^2 gives the probability of finding the particle within volume element centred around r=r1,compared with that of finding it within the same volume element at r=r2.For theparticular case of the plane wave we see that...there is equal chance of finding the particle at any point."

My question is,why do we prefer the first solution(wave packets) to the second one(relative probabilities)?
 
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  • #2
The wave packet solution is closer to the classical picture of a localized particle. It also applies to more physical situations.
 

Related to Wave packet vs relative probability

1. What is a wave packet?

A wave packet, also known as a Gaussian wave packet, is a mathematical representation of a physical wave that describes a localized disturbance in space and time. It is used to represent the motion of a particle in quantum mechanics.

2. What is relative probability?

Relative probability is a term used in quantum mechanics to describe the probability of finding a particle at a particular location. It is relative to the total probability of finding the particle anywhere in the system.

3. What is the difference between a wave packet and relative probability?

A wave packet is a mathematical representation of a physical wave, while relative probability is a measure of the likelihood of finding a particle at a specific location. The wave packet describes the motion of a particle, while relative probability describes the chance of finding the particle at a particular point in space.

4. How are wave packets and relative probability related?

Wave packets and relative probability are related through the wave function in quantum mechanics. The wave function describes the probability amplitude of a particle at different points in space, and the square of the wave function gives the relative probability of finding the particle at those points.

5. Why is it important to understand the concept of wave packet vs relative probability?

Understanding the concept of wave packet vs relative probability is crucial in quantum mechanics as it helps to explain the behavior of particles at the quantum level. The wave packet gives insight into the motion of a particle, while relative probability helps to determine the likelihood of finding the particle at a particular location, making it an essential tool in predicting and understanding the behavior of particles in quantum systems.

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