Physics - Ch 66 Ch 4 Quantum Mechanics: Schrodinger Eqn (3 of 92) The Wave Equation

Michel van Biezen
19 Nov 201607:06
EducationalLearning
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TLDRThis lecture transcript delves into the fundamental aspects of wave equations, emphasizing the necessity for any real wave equation to adhere to a generalized form. It explains how the wave function's solution must align with the generalized wave equation in one dimension, and illustrates this with a comparison to classical mechanics' general wave equation. The process of deriving the Schrödinger equation from these principles is outlined, highlighting the importance of satisfying the wave equation to ensure it accurately describes the motion of small particles in quantum mechanics. The lecture sets the stage for further exploration into the development of the Schrödinger equation in subsequent videos.

Takeaways
  • 🌊 The lecture focuses on the third aspect of the wave equation, emphasizing its necessity to be a proper wave equation.
  • 📈 The generalized wave equation in one dimension is introduced as a fundamental requirement for a real wave equation.
  • 🌟 The wave function's solution must be in the form of y = f(t) + g(t), where f and g are functions of time and minus x over Vx, with Vx being the one-dimensional distance.
  • 🔄 The wave equation must satisfy the general equation for an undamped system, which is derived from the form of sines and cosines.
  • 📚 The process of comparing the generalized wave equation to a classical mechanics wave equation is discussed, using a familiar example of Y = A*cos(ωt - kx).
  • 🔢 By taking partial derivatives with respect to X and T, the equation is shown to satisfy the general wave equation, confirming its validity as a proper wave equation.
  • 🌐 The relationship K² = 1/V² * ω² is established, where K is the wave number and ω is the angular frequency.
  • 🌀 K is defined as 2π/λ (wavelength), and ω is related to the frequency, F, demonstrating that wavelength times frequency equals velocity for any wave.
  • 💡 The equation's derivation is a step towards the Schrödinger equation, which will describe the motion of small particles in quantum mechanics.
  • 🚀 The final form of the Schrödinger equation is not yet presented; further modifications are required to reach the final version.
  • 🎯 The historical process of deriving the Schrödinger equation involved comparing it to known wave equations and iteratively refining it to accurately describe quantum phenomena.
Q & A
  • What is the primary requirement for a surging equation to be considered a proper wave equation?

    -A surging equation must adhere to the generalized wave equation in one dimension, which is the fundamental form of a real wave equation.

  • What is the general form of the wave function solution in one dimension?

    -The general form of the wave function solution is y = f(t) + g(t), where f and g are functions of time and the minus sign indicates the direction of wave propagation in one-dimensional space.

  • How does the wave equation relate to the concept of undamped systems?

    -For an undamped system, the general solution to the wave equation must take the form that satisfies the generalized wave equation without any damping factors.

  • What is the significance of the sine and cosine functions in wave equations?

    -Sine and cosine functions are used to represent the wave equation in terms of sinusoidal waves, which are fundamental to describing oscillatory motion in physics.

  • How does the classical mechanics wave equation (Y = A*cos(ωt - kx)) relate to the generalized wave equation?

    -The classical mechanics wave equation is a specific case of the generalized wave equation. It can be derived from the generalized form by applying partial derivatives with respect to x and t.

  • What happens when we take the partial derivative of the classical wave equation with respect to x?

    -The partial derivative with respect to x yields a term involving the sine function and the spatial frequency (k), which is -A*k*cos(kx - ωt).

  • What is the result of taking the second partial derivative of the classical wave equation with respect to x?

    -The second partial derivative with respect to x results in a term involving the cosine function and the square of the spatial frequency (k^2), which is -A*k^2*cos(kx - ωt).

  • How does the frequency (ω) relate to the velocity (v) of a wave in the context of the wave equation?

    -The frequency (ω) is related to the velocity (v) by the equation ω = v*k, where k is the wave number (2π/λ) and λ is the wavelength. This relationship is derived from the wave equation and is a fundamental principle in wave physics.

  • What is the significance of the wavelength (λ) and frequency (f) in the context of the wave equation?

    -The wavelength (λ) and frequency (f) are significant because their product equals the wave's velocity. This relationship is essential for understanding wave behavior and is used to validate the wave equation.

  • How does the process of deriving the Schrödinger equation relate to the development of quantum mechanics?

    -The Schrödinger equation was developed to describe the motion of small particles in quantum mechanics. It was derived by starting with a generalized wave equation and adjusting it to fit the known principles of wave behavior and quantum phenomena.

  • What was the historical approach to deriving the Schrödinger equation?

    -The historical approach to deriving the Schrödinger equation involved a process of trial and error, comparing the new equation to known wave equations, and adjusting it to accurately describe quantum mechanical phenomena.

Outlines
00:00
📚 Introduction to Wave Equations

This paragraph introduces the concept of wave equations, emphasizing the need for a proper wave equation to adhere to a generalized form. It discusses the one-dimensional generalized wave equation and its implications for solutions in the context of wave functions. The paragraph also explains how the wave equation must satisfy specific conditions for an undamped system, leading to a solution in the form of sines and cosines. The process of validating a wave equation is illustrated by comparing it to a classical mechanics wave equation and showing that it satisfies the generalized wave equation through mathematical derivation.

05:02
🌐 Wave Equations and Quantum Mechanics

The second paragraph delves into the relationship between wave equations and quantum mechanics. It explains how the general form of a wave equation can be used to derive the Schrödinger equation, which is crucial for describing the motion of small particles in the quantum world. The paragraph outlines the process of deriving a proper wave equation by comparing it to familiar classical mechanics equations and showing that it satisfies the wave equation. It also touches on the concept of wavelength and frequency in relation to velocity, highlighting the importance of these parameters in wave equations. The paragraph concludes by suggesting that the derived wave equation serves as a foundation for further development in quantum mechanics, particularly in understanding particle motion.

Mindmap
Keywords
💡Wave Equation
A fundamental equation in mathematical physics that describes the propagation of waves. In the context of the video, it is used to establish the form of the wave function in one dimension, which is essential for understanding the behavior of waves in classical mechanics and quantum mechanics. The video emphasizes the need for the equation to satisfy a generalized form to be considered a proper wave equation.
💡Schrodinger Equation
A key equation in quantum mechanics that describes how the quantum state of a physical system changes with time. The video suggests that the Schrodinger equation must start in a format that satisfies the general wave equation to be valid. It is used to describe the motion of small particles in the quantum mechanical world.
💡Generalized Form
A broad or inclusive representation of a concept or equation that can accommodate various specific cases. In the video, the generalized form of the wave equation is emphasized as the standard that any real wave equation must meet. This form is crucial for ensuring the equation can describe a wide range of wave phenomena.
💡One-Dimensional Case
A scenario or model where the variables or actions under consideration are confined to a single dimension. In the video, the one-dimensional case is used to illustrate the form of the wave equation, simplifying the complexity of the problem and providing a foundation for understanding more complex, multidimensional scenarios.
💡Undamped System
A system where there is no energy dissipation over time, meaning the amplitude of oscillations remains constant. The video discusses the general solution to the wave equation for an undamped system, which is crucial for understanding the stable propagation of waves without energy loss.
💡Partial Derivative
A mathematical operation that deals with the rate of change of a function with respect to one variable while keeping all other variables constant. In the video, partial derivatives are used to manipulate the wave equation, demonstrating how it satisfies the conditions of a proper wave equation.
💡Amplitude
The maximum displacement of a periodic wave from its equilibrium or mean position. In the video, amplitude is used as a factor in the wave equation to represent the strength or magnitude of the wave.
💡Frequency
The number of cycles of a wave that occur in a unit of time. The video connects the concept of frequency to the wave equation, showing how it relates to the wavelength and velocity of the wave.
💡Wavelength
The distance over which a wave's shape repeats. In the context of the video, the wavelength is a critical parameter in the wave equation, and it is used to relate the wave's spatial characteristics to its temporal behavior.
💡Velocity
The speed of an object in a given direction. In the context of wave motion, it represents the speed at which the wave pattern moves through a medium. The video establishes the relationship between wavelength, frequency, and velocity, which is fundamental to understanding wave behavior.
💡Quantum Mechanics
A branch of physics that deals with the behavior of particles at the atomic and subatomic scale, where classical mechanics no longer apply. The video discusses the development of the Schrodinger equation as a tool to describe the motion of small particles in the quantum mechanical world.
Highlights

The lecture introduces the concept of a proper wave equation and its importance in understanding wave functions.

The generalized wave equation in one dimension is presented as a fundamental requirement for a real wave equation.

The solution to the wave equation must be in the form of y equals a function of time, plus a minus X over V X, where V X represents one-dimensional distance.

The general solution to the wave equation for an undamped system is discussed, highlighting the need for it to satisfy the given wave equation.

The imaginary part in the real part of the equation is noted, which leads to the equation being written in the form of sines and cosines.

The process of comparing the wave equation to a familiar classical mechanics wave equation is explained, using Y equals amplitude times the cosine of Omega T or KX minus Omega T.

The partial derivatives of the classical wave equation with respect to X and T are calculated to verify its satisfaction of the general wave equation.

The cancellation of terms in the equation when plugging in the derivatives is observed, leading to the relation K squared equals 1 over V squared times Omega squared.

The relationship K squared over Omega squared equals 1 over V squared is derived, which is a key step in validating the wave equation.

K is defined as 2 PI over lambda, and Omega as 2 pi times the frequency, leading to the conclusion that the wavelength times the frequency equals the velocity.

The equation is confirmed to be a proper wave equation because it satisfies the general form of the wave equation.

The process of deriving the Schrödinger equation from the general form of the wave equation is discussed, emphasizing the iterative nature of its development.

The lecture outlines the historical journey of physicists in deriving equations to describe the motion of small particles in quantum mechanics.

The importance of starting with a generalized solution of the wave equation to derive the Schrödinger equation is highlighted.

The lecture sets the stage for the next video, where the derivation of the Schrödinger equation and its application in quantum mechanics will be explored.

The necessity of comparing new equations to known ones to validate their correctness is emphasized, showcasing the methodological approach in physics.

The lecture concludes with a preview of the next steps in the derivation process, promising a deeper understanding of the Schrödinger equation.

Transcripts
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