Q8(ii). Ground-state oscillator wavefunction
The ground-state wavefunction is proportional to exp (-β x²), where x is displacement from equilibrium. Sketch it and determine the most probable and average values of x. The paper prints β=√(μ k)/ħ.
Answer in brief
Both the most probable displacement and ⟨ x⟩ are zero.
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CoversGround-state oscillator wavefunctionQuantum mechanics
All parts of Question 8
- 8(ii) Ground-state oscillator wavefunction3 marks
- 8(iii) Chlorine force constant4 marks
- 8(i) Harmonic-oscillator levels3 marks