A function of the form e^−gx2 is a solution of the Schrodinger equation for the harmonic oscillator, provided that g is chosen correctly. In this problem you will find the correct form of g. (a) Start by substituting Ψ = e^−gx2 into the left-hand side of the Schrodinger equation for the harmonic oscillator and evaluating the second derivative. (b) You will find that in general the resulting expression is not of the form constant × Ψ, implying that Ψ is not a solution to the equation. However, by choosing the value of g such that the terms in x^2 cancel one another, a solution is obtained. Find the required form of g and hence the corresponding energy. (c) Confirm that the function so obtained is indeed the ground state of the harmonic oscillator and has the correct energy.
A function of the form e^−gx2 is a solution of the Schrodinger equation for the harmonic oscillator, provided that g is chosen correctly. In this problem you will find the correct form of g.
(a) Start by substituting Ψ = e^−gx2 into the left-hand side of the Schrodinger equation for the harmonic oscillator and evaluating the second derivative.
(b) You will find that in general the resulting expression is not of the form constant × Ψ, implying that Ψ is not a solution to the equation. However, by choosing the value of g such that the terms in x^2 cancel one another, a solution is obtained. Find the required form of g and hence the corresponding energy.
(c) Confirm that the function so obtained is indeed the ground state of the harmonic oscillator and has the correct energy.
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