University Quantum Mechanics I · Finite Square Wells · 7.03
Bound states and what normalisability demands of the tails
A bound state is one whose wavefunction is square-integrable, so psi must vanish as |x| grows.
Course-map guide · not a complete lesson or simulationScope & orientation
What this subsection covers
A bound state is one whose wavefunction is square-integrable, so psi must vanish as |x| grows.A strong response uses tan and cot branches cut by the z0 circle and states where the model stops being reliable.
Reasoning checklist
Evidence, assumptions and limits
Assumptions to state
State the system, observable, approximation, and conditions held fixed before using a model.
Evidence to collect
Do graphical roots, a bracketed root-finder, and outward shooting return the same bound-state energies for one well, and where do they part?
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Do graphical roots, a bracketed root-finder, and outward shooting return the same bound-state energies for one well, and where do they part? Useful evidence includes the z0 circle plot with its intersections read off, roots from a bracketed solver, eigenvalues from shooting, the three sets tabulated against the floor(2 z0/π) + 1 prediction, and the tolerance at which the methods disagree..
Limits to state
This GioPhysics course map is an adaptable learning sequence, not academic credit, accreditation, or a universal university syllabus.
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This GioPhysics course map is an adaptable learning sequence, not academic credit, accreditation, or a universal university syllabus. It is a first dedicated quantum-mechanics course, distinct from University Physics V, which covers quantum mechanics alongside atomic, nuclear and particle physics in twenty units: this course is narrower, slower, and teaches the linear algebra it needs rather than assuming it. Hydrogen appears here as an introduction, with the full radial derivation belonging to a second course. A midterm examination is assumed around week 8. Follow your institution's published scope, notation, laboratory programme, and assessment rules. A result should be checked against units, signs, limiting cases, and the conditions under which its model was derived.
Diagram & examples
Work the claim before choosing an equation
Interactive concept map
Follow the model from claim to evidence.
Model, evidence, and boundary
What is the strongest test of a claim about Bound states and what normalisability demands of the tails?
modelModel, evidence, and boundary turns the stated idea into a representation that can make a prediction.
Example questions
Try the reasoning before revealing the structure.
What is the strongest test of a claim about Bound states and what normalisability demands of the tails?
Quick check
Test the reasoning, not recall
What is the strongest test of a claim about Bound states and what normalisability demands of the tails?
Choose an answer to test the model.