Wave Functions Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is a wave function in quantum mechanics?
A wave function is a mathematical description of the quantum state of a system, encapsulating information about the probability amplitude of position and momentum.
True or False: The square of the wave function’s magnitude gives the probability density of finding a particle in a given state.
True
Fill in the blank: The wave function is typically denoted by the symbol ____.
psi (Ψ)
What does the normalization condition of a wave function ensure?
It ensures that the total probability of finding the particle in all space is equal to 1.
Multiple Choice: Which equation governs the time evolution of wave functions?
Schrödinger equation
What is the significance of the wave function’s phase?
The phase of a wave function can affect interference patterns and the relative probabilities of different outcomes in quantum measurements.
True or False: A wave function can be negative.
True
What must be true for a wave function to be considered physically acceptable?
It must be square-integrable, meaning it must be normalizable.
Fill in the blank: In quantum mechanics, wave functions can exhibit ____ behavior, meaning they can spread out over time.
wave-like
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT a property of wave functions?
Wave functions can be observed directly.
What is meant by the term ‘superposition’ in the context of wave functions?
Superposition refers to the principle that a wave function can be a linear combination of multiple wave functions, representing multiple states simultaneously.
True or False: The wave function contains all the information about a quantum system.
True
What are eigenstates in relation to wave functions?
Eigenstates are specific wave functions that correspond to definite values of an observable, which can be measured in a quantum system.
Fill in the blank: The mathematical form of a wave function is often described using ____ coordinates.
polar
Multiple Choice: Which of the following best describes the role of the wave function in quantum mechanics?
It provides a complete description of a quantum system’s state.
