1
$\begingroup$

If we sole the TISWE, and if energy or the particle lies between $0<E<V$. If we do the calculation, Transmission coefficient $(T)$ comes out to be zero. I get that part, but why then there exist a transmission probability of finding the particle if $T=0$. What does that signify.

Also if we compare it with the expression of $J=\rho v$, (here in this case, $\rho$ is our $|\psi^2|$ and $v$ is the velocity of particle) if $|\psi^2|$ is not zero, implies $v=0$, thus current density is zero. What does it means if velocity of particle being zero in classical forbidden region and current density thus finally becoming $0$.

$\endgroup$

1 Answer 1

1
$\begingroup$

The transmission coefficient is zero, because the wave within the barrier is not propagating, even though the probability of finding particle within the barriers is non-zero.

This may become even clearer, if one calculates the current using the correct expression for the probability current: $$ \mathbf{j}=\frac{-i\hbar}{2m}\left(\psi^*\nabla\psi - \psi\nabla\psi^*\right) $$

Remark: Expression $j=\rho v$ seems to me borrowed from classical physics, and applied here without justification - this expression is grounded in classical intuition and is not applicable without appropriate averaging.

$\endgroup$
4
  • $\begingroup$ As said, If the wave after say x>0 is not propagating, but we see the probability of finding the particle, i cant just get this thing in my head physically. I know for real wave function current density is always 0, but if you can justify my doubt would be much more clearer. $\endgroup$ Commented May 27, 2021 at 12:00
  • 1
    $\begingroup$ If the wave function is real, the momentum is zero - there is no flux, i.e., the wave is not propagating. One could think of it as a stationary wave. $\endgroup$
    – Roger V.
    Commented May 27, 2021 at 12:02
  • $\begingroup$ So doesn't that means particle never crossed the barrier. And wave not propagating means that T=0 means, no wave is present or T=0 means no particle is present. Also how can we correlate to stationary wave. Also Stationary wave concept how are using it here can you explain a bit more. $\endgroup$ Commented May 27, 2021 at 12:09
  • $\begingroup$ To say that particle crossed the barrier, one needs to know its position and momentum - it is not possible for classical particle. If we compare with theelectromagnetic field, then within the barrier we have an evanescent wave - the amplitude is non-zero, but the wave is not propagating (evanescent wave is actually more precise term than stationary wave) $\endgroup$
    – Roger V.
    Commented May 27, 2021 at 12:14

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.