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Practical Quantum Mechanics Problems

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Understanding the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle.

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The principle states that it is impossible to simultaneously measure the exact position and momentum of a particle. It's mathematically expressed as ΔxΔp2\Delta x \Delta p \geq \frac{\hbar}{2}. To reduce uncertainty in one variable, increase uncertainty in the other.

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Quantum entanglement and its paradoxical features.

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Quantum entanglement occurs when pairs or groups of particles are generated in such a way that the quantum state of each particle cannot be described independently. Actions performed on one entangled particle affect the other instantaneously, no matter the distance, which was referred to as 'spooky action at a distance' by Einstein.

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The particle in a one-dimensional box with infinite potential walls.

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Solution involves solving the Schrödinger equation for the system, which gives quantized energy levels. Solutions include sine functions that represent the stationary states of the particle. Energy levels are given by En=n2π222mL2E_n = \frac{n^2\pi^2\hbar^2}{2mL^2}, where nn is a quantum number, LL the length of the box, mm the particle mass, and \hbar the reduced Planck constant.

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Explanation and calculation of spin in quantum mechanics.

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Spin is an intrinsic form of angular momentum carried by elementary particles. It is calculated by the operator S^=s(s+1)\hat{S} = \sqrt{s(s+1)}\hbar, where ss is the spin quantum number. Electrons have a spin of 1/21/2, which leads to two possible orientations, +1/2 (up) and -1/2 (down).

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Determining the spin state of a system of two electrons using the Pauli exclusion principle.

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The Pauli exclusion principle states that no two fermions can occupy the same quantum state simultaneously. For a system of two electrons in an atom, this means they must have opposite spins if they are in the same orbital, leading to a singlet state with spins cancelling out. In different orbitals, they can be in a triplet state with parallel spins.

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The concept of quantum tunneling and its implications.

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Quantum tunneling allows particles to pass through a barrier that would be insurmountable in classical physics. This phenomenon can be explained by wave-particle duality and is described mathematically by the transmission coefficient through a potential barrier. Applications include the scanning tunneling microscope and semiconductor devices.

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The double-slit experiment and its significance in quantum mechanics.

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The double-slit experiment demonstrates the wave-particle duality of quantum objects. When not observed, particles exhibit an interference pattern, indicating wave-like behavior. Once observed, they behave like particles. This reveals the role of the observer in affecting the outcome of quantum events.

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The role of quantum decoherence in the transition from quantum to classical behavior.

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Quantum decoherence describes the loss of quantum coherence, whereby a system ceases to exhibit purely quantum effects like superposition and becomes classically distinguishable. This occurs due to the interaction with the environment, which acts as a measurement and disrupts the superposition.

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Use of the Stern-Gerlach experiment to demonstrate quantum superposition and measurement.

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The Stern-Gerlach experiment passes a beam of silver atoms through a non-uniform magnetic field. This splits the beam into two, corresponding to the two possible spin states. It demonstrates superposition by showing that the silver atom's spin is in a superposition of up and down states until measured.

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The harmonic oscillator problem in quantum mechanics.

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The quantized energy levels are solved using the ladder operator method. The energies are given by En=ω(12+n)E_n = \hbar\omega(\frac{1}{2} + n) where nn is the quantum number and ω\omega is the angular frequency of the oscillator. The wave functions are Hermite polynomials multiplied by a Gaussian exponent.

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