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6: One-Dimensional Models

Last updated

Mar 26, 2024
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- 5.4: Eigenstates and Eigenvalues
- 6.1: Particle-in-a-Box, Part 1

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6.1: Particle-in-a-Box, Part 1
We start with easily the most iconic and illuminating one-dimensional model in quantum theory. It's not an exaggeration to say that the results we extract from this simple model provide useful insight into all of the models that follow.
6.2: Particle-in-a-Box, Part 2
There is so much to learn from this model, we need two sections to cover it all!
6.3: The Finite Square Well
If we modify the potential for the particle-in-a-box ever so slightly (by giving the walls a finite height), we find a substantial change in the results. There are still some common features, but some new ideas also emerge.
6.4: Tunneling
Now that we have seen that a particle can have a non-zero probability of being found in a classically-forbidden region, we explore what happens if this region is finite in width. Can the particle appear out the other side, where it can once again classically have a positive kinetic energy?
6.5: The Quantum Harmonic Oscillator
We have seen in previous courses that bonds between particles are often modeled with springs, because these represent the simplest of restoring forces, and provide a good approximation for the actual forces experienced by these particles. It is therefore no surprise that solving the quantum problem of a particle bound by a spring potential is very useful.
6.6: The Bohr Model of the Hydrogen Atom
While the Bohr model is a one-dimensional model, it is not really in the same category of the models we have looked at so far. Bohr proposed this model of the hydrogen atom before the Schrödinger equation was available. There is a much more accurate solution for the hydrogen atom, but three dimensions and considerably more math are required. Still, one can't help but be impressed with what Bohr was able to accomplish with so little.

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