The wave function for a particle in a box of length L is given by .If the box extends from x = 0 to x = L, at which of the following positions is the highest probability for finding the particle?
A)x = 0.33 L
B)x = 0.04 L
C)x = 0.60 L
D)Both (a) and (b).
E)Both (b) and (c).

Question

The wave function for a particle in a box of length L is given by .If the box extends from x = 0 to x = L, at which of the following positions is the highest probability for finding the particle? 
A)x = 0.33 L 
B)x = 0.04 L 
C)x = 0.60 L 
D)Both (a) and (b). 
E)Both (b) and (c).

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The highest probability for finding the particle is at the point where the wave function has the greatest amplitude. This occurs at the center of the box, which is x = 0.5 L. Out of the given choices, x = 0.60 L is the closest to the center of the box and therefore has the highest probability. Choices A and B are further away from the center and have lower probabilities.

The Wave Function for a Particle in a Box of Length