Wave Functions, Tunneling & Schrödinger Equation Explained | Chapter 40 of University Physics
Wave Functions, Tunneling & Schrödinger Equation Explained | Chapter 40 of University Physics Chapter 40 dives into the core of quantum mechanics: wave functions, Schrödinger’s equation, particle confinement in potential wells, quantum tunneling, and the quantum harmonic oscillator. Whether you're studying atomic systems or advanced quantum devices, this breakdown will clarify these fundamental concepts. Watch the full video summary on YouTube to see animated solutions of the Schrödinger equation and tunneling demonstrations. Wave Functions & Schrödinger’s Equation The wave function Ψ(x,t) encodes all information about a quantum system, with probability density given by |Ψ|². Its evolution follows the time-dependent Schrödinger equation: −(ħ²/2m) ∂²Ψ/∂x² + U(x)Ψ = iħ ∂Ψ/∂t . Superpositions of eigenstates form wave packets that describe localized particles, but they spread over time due to the uncertainty principle (Δx·Δp ≥ ħ/2). Particle in a Box (Infinite S...