A particle is trapped in an infinite potential energy well.It is in the state with quantum number n = 14.How many maxima does the probability density have?
A)0
B)7
C)13
D)14
E)15

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The probability density of a particle in an infinite potential energy well with quantum number n has n-1 maxima. Therefore, in this case, the particle has 14-1=13 maxima in its probability density. However, the question is asking for the number of maxima for the probability density, not the wavefunction. The probability density is proportional to the square of the wavefunction, and therefore, it will also have 13 maxima. Thus, the correct answer is D, 14.

A Particle Is Trapped in an Infinite Potential Energy Well